Following a powerful earthquake in Myanmar that has left thousands in distress, the International Red Cross is actively involved in providing humanitarian aid and assessing urgent needs in a region already strained by ongoing conflict and authoritarian governance. Their intervention reinforces efforts to support vulnerable communities during a crisis.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has instituted a legally binding Supplier Code of Conduct that mandates ethical, social, environmental, and quality standards for all its contracted suppliers, ensuring a responsibly managed supply chain.

The International Red Cross, in a joint appeal with the United Nations Secretary-General, calls on state leaders to enact new prohibitions and restrictions on autonomous weapon systems to ensure human oversight and minimize the risk of indiscriminate violence.

On October 5, 2023, the United Nations Secretary-General and the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross jointly called on states to establish specific prohibitions and restrictions on autonomous weapon systems. The appeal emphasized the importance of retaining human control over lethal decisions and preventing unpredictable military escalations, aligning with broader humanitarian and anti-authoritarian objectives.

On September 11, 2023, the International Red Cross announced further job cuts, adding to the 1,500 positions already eliminated this year. The organization cited a 13% budget reduction for 2024 as a driving factor for these cuts, which include an expected reduction of 270 jobs at its Geneva headquarters, potentially compromising its ability to deliver humanitarian services.

The ICRC is facing a severe financial crisis as its budget contracts from CHF 2.8 billion to 2.4 billion, forcing drastic cost-cutting measures including 1,800 job cuts (potentially up to 3,000 when including temporary staff) and the shuttering of several offices. This move has raised significant concerns regarding the protection of worker rights within the organization.

On March 30, 2023, the governing board of the International Committee of the Red Cross approved a €440 million savings plan that will lead to the layoff of nearly 10% of its global workforce and scaling down operations in 26 locations worldwide, in response to steep declines in donation revenue.

Amid concerns over potential future aid cuts from a far‐right U.S. administration, ICRC Director General Robert Mardini held an event on Capitol Hill to articulate the organization’s mission and secure ongoing support. This strategic move aims to preemptively counter political pressures that could threaten humanitarian aid.