Strengthening Partnerships: ICRC Enhances Collaboration with IRCS in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Initiatives

The recent meeting between Vincent Cassard, the representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Iran, and Razieh Alishvandi, the director of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) for international affairs, highlighted the growing need for enhanced cooperation in humanitarian sectors, particularly in rehabilitation and mental health. This collaboration aims to improve the living conditions for those affected by crises, showcasing a commitment to humanitarian efforts in the region.

During the meeting held in Tehran, Cassard emphasized that “the cooperation in rehabilitation and mental health fields has progressed well so far, and we believe that it will provide suitable and effective platforms for enhanced collaborations between the two sides,” as reported by IRNA. This statement underscores the importance of working together to address the pressing needs of vulnerable populations.

Additionally, Cassard expressed the ICRC’s readiness to expand collaborations in family reunification, recognizing it as a crucial priority that can alleviate the suffering of families impacted by crises. He remarked, “We are also ready to expand collaborations in family reunification; it is one of our key priorities, which can play an effective role in alleviating the pain of families affected by crises.”

The discussion also touched upon the educational cooperation between the ICRC and the IRCS, with Cassard looking forward to similar initiatives in the future. He praised the IRCS for its efforts in providing relief services to war-affected individuals, particularly in regions like Gaza and Lebanon, and expressed the ICRC’s commitment to enhancing support for Syrian refugees.

In response, Alishvandi articulated the IRCS’s readiness to strengthen its humanitarian efforts, particularly in rehabilitation, to improve the conditions for individuals affected by crises. She stated, “The IRCS is providing rehabilitation services both nationally and globally. These services are provided in cooperation with the ICRC in the eastern provinces of the country which are mainly hosting immigrants.”

Alishvandi also addressed the challenges faced by Syrian and Lebanese refugees, urging the ICRC to provide additional support for war victims in the region. She emphasized the IRCS’s commitment, stating, “Along with our international colleagues, we have always done our best to fulfill our humanitarian duties by assisting those in need and those affected by crises, regardless of geographical borders.”

Cooperation in the Rehabilitation Sector

In August 2024, Alishvandi and Cassard explored potential avenues to enhance their cooperation. They expressed mutual interest in maintaining and increasing joint activities, particularly focusing on the rehabilitation sector. Alishvandi highlighted that the IRCS operates over 200 active rehabilitation centers across the nation and is dedicated to screening patients with musculoskeletal disorders to identify and prevent these issues.

Cassard commended the IRCS’s efforts, stating, “The International Committee of the Red Cross is ready to cooperate with the Iranian Red Crescent Society in all sectors.” He extended an invitation to the IRCS to participate in an upcoming international rehabilitation conference, acknowledging their exceptional contributions in this field.

During a meeting in June 2024, Alishvandi and Cassard reviewed efforts to enhance rehabilitation services for vulnerable and disabled individuals in Zahedan, the capital of Sistan-Baluchestan. They visited a rehabilitation center and discussed a joint project aimed at delivering physical rehabilitation services to migrants and vulnerable citizens in cities such as Zahedan, Iranshahr, Chabahar, and Zabol.

The collaboration has been in effect since the Iranian year 1398 (2018-2019) and aims to provide extensive physical rehabilitation services across Sistan-Baluchestan province. Alishvandi confirmed, “Currently, the Iranian Red Crescent Society operates rehabilitation centers in all 31 provinces; they offer a wide range of services to individuals with physical disabilities as part of its program.”

The ICRC plays a vital role by funding rehabilitation programs for both Iranian and Afghan individuals in Sistan-Baluchestan. This support includes covering the costs of various services and assistive devices, such as prostheses, orthotics, physiotherapy, special footwear, wheelchairs, canes, and walking aids.

The logistics department of the ICRC is responsible for procuring the necessary items from Sistan-Baluchestan or Tehran, depending on availability. Additionally, ongoing training sessions and on-the-job support are provided to orthotists and prosthetists to ensure quality throughout the manufacturing process.

Moreover, the ICRC allocates a budget to cover the project’s costs, which include human resources, building rent, and the equipment needed for conducting screening assessments. This comprehensive support framework is essential for delivering effective rehabilitation services and improving the quality of life for individuals in need.

In conclusion, the ongoing collaboration between the ICRC and the IRCS reflects a commitment to enhancing humanitarian efforts in Iran and the surrounding regions. By focusing on rehabilitation and mental health services, both organizations aim to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable populations and foster a more supportive environment for those affected by crises.