IRCS Hosts Transformative Workshop to Highlight Importance of Rehabilitation
The Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS), in collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), has recently conducted a significant workshop focusing on the crucial role of rehabilitation in humanitarian efforts. This workshop highlighted that “rehabilitation is not just about providing medical services. It restores lives,” as emphasized by Faisal Mahboob, the head of the IFRC delegation in Iran. Understanding the importance of rehabilitation is essential for healthcare professionals, and this workshop aimed to equip attendees with the necessary knowledge and skills.
During the workshop, Mahboob stated, “We are here since we have a shared mission that is helping people to regain dignity, independence, and hope through health and rehabilitation.” His remarks underscored the collective commitment of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to help those in need.
Mahboob elaborated on the concept of leadership within the organization, asserting that “leadership in the Red Cross and Red Crescent is not limited to titles or positions.” He emphasized that true leadership manifests in the choices made during challenging moments, the role models set for teams, and the joy brought to every decision. He remarked that healthcare providers and professional leaders are at the heart of the mission, ensuring a response that is immediate, sustainable, and comprehensive.
Notably, Mahboob referred to the Strategy 2030, which outlines three key priorities:
- Strengthening local measures so societies can rely on their strengths and capabilities.
- Investing in the future to prepare young people and volunteers for leadership roles.
- Promoting collaborative efforts since no single society can confront a crisis alone.
“Keep it in mind that leadership is not about being in charge, but being a source of inspiration to others, giving hope, and taking action when it matters most,” Mahboob added, reinforcing the importance of inspirational leadership.
Vincent Cassard, the ICRC representative in Iran, who attended the workshop, stated, “This initiative highlights our joint commitment and mutual understanding within the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement; it underscores the critical role we play in delivering humanitarian action.” He expressed that the workshop not only aimed to introduce the movement but also served as a platform for collaborative thought on the essential services provided to those in need.
Cassard noted that healthcare and rehabilitation professionals bear a unique responsibility. “You put our principles into practice every day, whether through ensuring access to quality healthcare, rehabilitation for people with disabilities, or responding to emergencies,” he mentioned. The workshop was designed to enhance understanding of the Movement’s foundations, emphasizing the significance of international humanitarian law and the missions of the Red Cross, the Federation, and national societies.
These principles play a vital role in ensuring equal access to medical care, maintaining neutrality during conflicts, and upholding human dignity in the most challenging situations. The challenges faced by healthcare providers are not merely medical; they encompass humanitarian and ethical dimensions as well. In crises, hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers often become arenas where the essence of humanity is tested.
The core principles guiding the IRCS include:
- Unity
- Humanity
- Impartiality
- Neutrality
- Independence
- Volunteer service
- Oneness
- Universality
These principles serve as a compass, guiding actions and fostering trust among the people served by the organization.
Razieh Alishvandi, the director of the IRCS for international affairs, addressed the significance of rehabilitation in humanitarian missions. She highlighted that rehabilitation is a fundamental aspect of relief and rescue services, essential for supporting those affected by crises. Alishvandi stated, “Rehabilitation means restoring life, mobility, personal independence, and psychological peace to those affected by the crisis.” She emphasized that without physical and psychological rehabilitation, the life-saving cycle remains incomplete.
Alishvandi further detailed the IRCS’s contributions to rehabilitation, particularly for war veterans, natural disaster victims, and patients facing challenging health conditions. She noted that the IRCS has made substantial strides in rehabilitation by establishing specialized treatment and rehabilitation centers. “No single country can tackle the consequences of crises. However, with global solidarity and cooperation, we can support those in need through difficult times,” she asserted, emphasizing that rehabilitation extends beyond physical treatment to restoring self-esteem and hope.
Hamid-Reza Dehqan, another official with the IRCS, reiterated the organization’s readiness to enhance international cooperation in the rehabilitation sector. He mentioned that the workshop served as a valuable opportunity to strengthen the understanding of the movement’s foundations and uphold the principle of neutrality in conflict situations.
In conclusion, the workshop emphasized that neutrality is the cornerstone of the IRCS’s activities, whether in ensuring equal access to medical services or preserving human dignity in challenging circumstances. The collaborative effort with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies aims to implement various projects, particularly in mental health, demonstrating a commitment to progress despite existing limitations. The positive outcomes observed in the treatment sector suggest that society is advancing in the right direction.
Photo: Vincent Cassard, the representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Iran, attended the workshop.
