The auxiliary role of Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies is to support their public authorities through humanitarian services, in times of war or peace, while acting in accordance with the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The auxiliary role means that National Societies are private and independent organisations, with a recognised public function.
It is important that the auxiliary role is reflected and supported by domestic laws, policies, plans and agreements. For example, domestic laws should specify National Societies' roles and responsibilities in sectors such as health, disaster risk management, migration and social welfare. Our Guide to Strengthening the Auxiliary Role through Law and Policy and its accompanying online training course outline how domestic instruments can best support the auxiliary role.
