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jorar 2026, 18(1): 48-59 |
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Puladi N, Vakil A S. The Role of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Facilitating Humanitarian Access during Disasters. jorar 2026; 18 (1) :48-59
URL: http://jorar.ir/article-1-1056-en.html
URL: http://jorar.ir/article-1-1056-en.html
Professor of International Law, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract: (41 Views)
INTRODUCTION: Access to humanitarian assistance is a fundamental right during disasters and emergencies. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) plays a pivotal role in ensuring this access through both legal frameworks and operational mechanisms. This study examines how the IFRC bridges the gap between international humanitarian norms and field-level implementation to facilitate effective disaster response.
METHODS: This descriptive-analytical study employed content and document analysis. Data were synthesized from international legal instruments, IFRC policy documents, operational reports (2019–2024), and UN resolutions.
FINDINGS: The IFRC employs a dual-pronged integrated strategy grounded in institutional legal theory and crisis management frameworks. First, regarding normative development, the IFRC has been instrumental in advancing the International Disaster Response Law (IDRL) guidelines, influencing the International Law Commission's (ILC) Draft Articles on the Protection of Persons in the Event of Disasters (2016), and advocating for their evolution into a binding treaty by 2027. Second, in terms of operational implementation, the IFRC has developed innovative solutions for complex crises, including armed conflicts (Ukraine, 2022–2023), governance crises (Haiti, 2022), and sanctions-affected contexts (Afghanistan, 2021–2024). Comparative analysis highlights the IFRC's distinctive strengths relative to other humanitarian organizations while identifying persistent implementation challenges.
CONCLUSION: The IFRC has established a comprehensive legal-operational framework that strengthens humanitarian access at normative, institutional, and operational levels. However, sustained effectiveness necessitates continued political commitment from states, enhanced accountability mechanisms, and predictable funding. The ongoing development of a binding treaty on disaster protection presents a critical opportunity to institutionalize these frameworks globally. For National Societies—particularly those operating in complex political and sanctions-affected environments—this framework provides essential guidance for ensuring humanitarian access while adhering to both international obligations and national legal frameworks.
METHODS: This descriptive-analytical study employed content and document analysis. Data were synthesized from international legal instruments, IFRC policy documents, operational reports (2019–2024), and UN resolutions.
FINDINGS: The IFRC employs a dual-pronged integrated strategy grounded in institutional legal theory and crisis management frameworks. First, regarding normative development, the IFRC has been instrumental in advancing the International Disaster Response Law (IDRL) guidelines, influencing the International Law Commission's (ILC) Draft Articles on the Protection of Persons in the Event of Disasters (2016), and advocating for their evolution into a binding treaty by 2027. Second, in terms of operational implementation, the IFRC has developed innovative solutions for complex crises, including armed conflicts (Ukraine, 2022–2023), governance crises (Haiti, 2022), and sanctions-affected contexts (Afghanistan, 2021–2024). Comparative analysis highlights the IFRC's distinctive strengths relative to other humanitarian organizations while identifying persistent implementation challenges.
CONCLUSION: The IFRC has established a comprehensive legal-operational framework that strengthens humanitarian access at normative, institutional, and operational levels. However, sustained effectiveness necessitates continued political commitment from states, enhanced accountability mechanisms, and predictable funding. The ongoing development of a binding treaty on disaster protection presents a critical opportunity to institutionalize these frameworks globally. For National Societies—particularly those operating in complex political and sanctions-affected environments—this framework provides essential guidance for ensuring humanitarian access while adhering to both international obligations and national legal frameworks.
Keywords: IFRC, Humanitarian access, Human rights, International Disaster Response Law (IDRL), Disaster relief, Legal-operational framework, Early action.
Article Type: Research article |
Subject:
Humanitarian laws
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