International Review of the Red Cross - Humanitarian Debate: Law, policy, Action. Displacement

Tackling the problem of internal displacement in all its dimensions therefore
requires a huge concerted effort at both national and international levels. The 30th
International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent acknowledged for the
first time that migration, in a broad sense of the term, is one of its major strategic
challenges of the future. Moreover, the recommendation issued in 2007 was that,
in addressing the humanitarian dimension of migration, the Red Cross and
Red Crescent should take an inclusive approach, irrespective of the status of
the migrants of concern. Needs and vulnerabilities of migrants should be the
determining factors in the humanitarian response, whatever the legal status
or category to which they belong. Similarly, the ICRC, the Federation and the
National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies developed policy guidelines for
addressing the needs and vulnerabilities of people and communities affected
by internal displacement. The guidelines adopted in November 2009 highlight
the strengths and added value of the Movement in providing a comprehensive
response to displacement crises, mainly through its global network which is firmly
anchored in communities.