Humanity in action: why principles matter more than ever

On 20 November at the European Parliament, policymakers and humanitarian actors came together to reaffirm the values that make life-saving assistance possible. The event, “Humanitarian Principles in Action”, marked the 60th anniversary of the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and explored their enduring relevance in today’s complex humanitarian landscape. 

Principles that save lives and protect dignity 

The humanitarian principles – humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence – are not abstract concepts. They are the foundation of effective humanitarian action. “They are the reason we act, and the reason we can reach people experiencing vulnerability, whether in Somalia, Syria, or right here in Europe”, Anne Peters, Deputy Secretary General at the Belgian Red Cross, reminded participants.  

Beyond the four core humanitarian principles, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is steered by Unity, Universality, and Voluntary Service. Unity ensures that one National Society serves all people within a country, fostering inclusion and bringing communities together. Universality binds the entire Movement, with National Societies supporting each other across borders – echoing the EU’s own principle of solidarity between Member States.  

At the heart of it all is Voluntary Service. Across the globe, our 16 million volunteers deliver extraordinary support where no one else can reach. They are the ones who show up, who stay, and who serve. The Fundamental Principles are the compass of our staff and volunteers: helping them to make ethical and operational decisions in the most complex crises.  

Challenges to humanitarian space  

Principled humanitarian action is under growing strain. Geopolitical polarisation and the politicisation of aid are eroding trust, while harmful narratives and dehumanising rhetoric fuel hostility. Impartial and neutral actors increasingly face intimidation, abuse, and even violence, leading to an unprecedented loss of life among humanitarian workers in 2024. 

President of VOICE, Pauline Chetcuti, also stressed the impact of the widening humanitarian funding gap. “Funding shortfalls, leading to de-prioritisation of some areas or contexts for lack of resources, can compromise impartiality, as not all needs are met”, she said. These pressures, combined with harmful information campaigns and attacks on aid infrastructure, threaten the principles that make life-saving action possible.  

This is not something happening only in distant countries, but unfolding right here, in European neighbourhoods. “No Red Cross staff member or volunteer should fear prosecution for providing assistance to people in migration – regardless of their legal status, whether they are in Brussels or crossing the Mediterranean”, Anne Peters stressed. 

A call for political commitment   

The European Union (EU) has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian principles and international humanitarian law. Andrea Koulaimah from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO) stressed that the EU remains a strong, reliable and committed humanitarian partner, as well as a predictable, needs based donor. “However, it cannot fill the gap left by others: the needs are simply too great. This is why the role of the Member States, including the European Parliament, is vital”, she stressed.  

The next Multi-Annual Financial Framework (MFF) provides a concrete opportunity for the EU to continue to demonstrate its commitment to principled humanitarian action. Abir al Sahlani, Vice-Chair of the European Parliament Committee on Development, underlined the importance of maintaining a predictable, needs-based humanitarian budget to ensure that EU funding remains principled, and able to respond rapidly to crises. 

Speakers agreed that protecting humanitarian principles requires more than operational effort. It demands political leadership.  

Looking ahead 

The humanitarian principles remain as relevant in the current political context as ever. They are the moral compass that must continue to guide our actions, ensure humanitarian space and the safety of humanitarian actors.  

The upcoming Commission Communication on Humanitarian Aid is a chance to strengthen the EU’s humanitarian diplomacy to champion and safeguard the humanitarian principles. It will be an opportunity to translate its commitments into concrete actions and to make sure that neutral, impartial and independent aid can be delivered safely.  

“We need broad support for these principles, whether we are discussing the MFF, the humanitarian aid budget, or future policy frameworks like the humanitarian aid Communication”, concluded MEP Leire Pajín, Standing Rapporteur for Humanitarian Aid. “Not only because it is the right thing to do, but because it is the most effective way to ensure our aid has impact where it is most needed”.