One Year On: Reflections on Leadership, Humanity & the Road Ahead

Today marks one year since I had the honor of being elected President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies - IFRC . It has been a year filled with profound challenges and extraordinary moments of hope. As I reflect on the past year, I’m filled with gratitude for all that I’ve accomplished with our team at IFRC, our Board and our Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

From the outset, I knew this role would demand resilience and determination. Our world faces unprecedented challenges: conflicts that shatter communities, the escalating impacts of climate change, and growing displacement due to political instability and environmental disasters. Over the past year, I’ve witnessed these realities firsthand during visits to 25 National Societies and conversations with over 60 leaders across our network.

What stands out from these experiences is the resilience, courage and compassion of the people I’ve met and the volunteers and staff I’ve seen in action. In every corner of the globe, I’ve seen the power of our global network.  

·       In Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, home to nearly 1 million refugees, I met an inspiring group of women who after taking classes offered by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) formed their own group and provided first aid in the camp. They have found a deep sense of purpose and dignity as they save lives within their own community.  

·       In Serbia, I witnessed a program of the Serbian Red Cross that teaches children about the dangers of child trafficking. It provides a welcoming place for them to gather, where they can feel a sense of safety and value.  

·       In Saudia Arabia, I attended a CPR course specifically designed for the visually impaired. One student held my hand as she told the story of saving her 7-month-old son’s life from choking to death. With tears streaming down her face, she shared the life-saving empowerment she felt.  

·       In Kenya, I met with women affected by repeated droughts and floods where I witnessed how the programs of the Kenya Red Cross and other partners bring hope for a better future for their children in the face of climate change and uncertainty. 

·       In Mexico, ( Cruz Roja Mexicana I.A.P. ) I met a young adult volunteer who developed a psychosocial support activity for migrant children, many of whom had lost the ability to speak after experiencing severe trauma. Designed with compassion and creativity, these activities helped children find joy and security. 

These small moments remind me why we do what we do. They are a testament to the extraordinary impact of our volunteers and staff, who show that even in the darkest circumstances, humanity prevails.

This year has not been without challenges. The complexity of the crises we face — from the tragic violence in conflict zones to the inequities exacerbated by climate change — demands an agile, compassionate, and united response. But amidst these challenges, I am convinced that the Red Cross and Red Crescent network represents the best of what humanity has to offer.

Our Priorities Moving Forward

As I reflect on the year behind us, I am also looking toward the future. We must continue to address:

• Conflict and displacement, by ensuring immediate relief and advocating for the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law.
• Climate change, through proactive adaptation and community resilience programs.
• Migration, ensuring people on the move receive the dignity and protection they deserve.
• Women and children, creating safe spaces, access to education, and healthcare even in the most fragile contexts.
• Funding and equality, strengthening the financial sustainability of our National Societies and advocating for neutral, needs-based aid is critical.

A Year of Transformation

Since taking office, I’ve worked to create an environment where every National Society, regardless of size or geography, feels heard and engaged. Together, we’ve built a more informed, representative, and forward-looking IFRC leadership. Together, we’ve supported our youth and volunteers—who are the beating heart of our network.  I am proud of the progress we’ve made, yet I know there is more to do.

Gratitude and Determination

I am deeply grateful to our volunteers, staff, partners, and National Societies for their tireless efforts. You are the reason we’ve been able to respond to simultaneous crises and continue our work in the most challenging environments.

As I begin my second year as President, my resolve is stronger than ever. We face a complex world that needs us to act with courage, integrity, and compassion. The road ahead is demanding, but together, we are up to the challenge.

Our work is trusted. Our work is inclusive. Our work is life-saving.

And above all, our work offers hope.

Thank you for your partnership on this incredible journey. The world is watching, and we will continue to rise to meet its needs — together.