The Role of the International Community

International Committee of the Red Cross

ICRC Humanitarian Activities in 1994

ICRC has had a permanent presence in Rwanda since 1990, protecting and assisting victims of the conflict and the civilian population at risk.

During the tragic events of 1994, the ICRC established an emergency hospital in its delegation compound and surgical teams worked round the clock to save 9,000 lives.

ICRC provided emergency food relief to vulnerable groups, internally displaced people and returnees in various regions. Distributions peaked in November 1994 with 1.3 million beneficiaries receiving ICRC aid.

Because ICRC is a neutral organization, it could not take sides in the Rwandan genocide.

© ICRC

Zairean Red cross staff helping refugees on their long trek home

© ICRC

A woman is taken to the hospital in Gisenyi, on the border with Zaire

© ICRC

Gatagara rehabilitation center