Red Cross emphasizes inclusive first aid for migrants on World First Aid Day

On World First Aid Day, Red Cross organizations in Slovenia, Suriname, and Nepal are emphasizing the critical importance of accessible and inclusive emergency care, specifically focusing on the needs of migrants and displaced populations.

In Slovenia, the Red Cross highlighted that first aid must be impartial, providing assistance regardless of nationality, language, or social status. The theme underscores that medical emergencies, such as injuries or sudden illnesses, can affect anyone, making universal first aid knowledge essential for community resilience. The University of Primorska also noted the vital roles of nursing and physiotherapy professionals in early recognition and recovery.

In Suriname, the Red Cross stressed that first aid should address both physical injuries and psychological distress, noting that language barriers and fear of authorities often prevent migrants from accessing formal healthcare. Similarly, the Nepal Red Cross Society pointed out that migration due to disasters, floods, or economic necessity carries high risks of dehydration, malnutrition, and trauma, requiring immediate first aid skills to prevent conditions from worsening.

Global data from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies indicates that as of mid-2024, there were approximately 304 million international migrants. For these individuals, access to immediate, understandable, and safe first aid is a vital component of humanitarian response during crises.