Unlocking Potential: How BRICS Can Leverage IRCS Expertise for Growth

In a recent meeting in Tehran, Marco Fernandes, the Brazilian representative at the BRICS Civil Council, emphasized the significance of leveraging the experiences and expertise of the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS). With a focus on enhancing humanitarian efforts, Fernandes stated the importance of collaboration among BRICS member states to implement essential initiatives.

During his meeting with Pirhossein Kolivand, the head of the IRCS, Fernandes remarked, “By sharing capacities and experiences in various fields, we are seeking to implement key measures in the BRICS Civil Council in cooperation with member states.” This statement underscores the pivotal role that the IRCS can play in international humanitarian efforts.

Kolivand highlighted the IRCS’s robust infrastructure, which comprises over four million volunteers, including more than 100,000 experts and scientists. He expressed a vision to expand this volunteer base to 20 million, enhancing the IRCS’s capacity to respond to humanitarian crises effectively.

The IRCS is also keen to attract foreign students from BRICS countries through its applied science and technology centers. Kolivand stated, “We can also train social work teams in the BRICS region and utilize the other countries’ experiences.” This initiative aims to foster knowledge exchange and collaborative training among member states, further strengthening their collective response capabilities.

Kolivand added that enhancing synergy and sharing best practices in relief and rescue operations could lead to the development of a unified approach to disaster management. He noted that this would significantly elevate the capabilities of relief agencies in addressing potential international crises.

IRCS Expertise: A Valuable Asset for BRICS

In September 2024, Sergei Alexeyevich Ryabkov, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, acknowledged the IRCS’s extensive and reputable activities on both national and international fronts. Ryabkov stated that the IRCS’s contributions can serve as a substantial asset to the BRICS member states.

During a meeting held at the fourth Eurasian Women’s Forum, Ryabkov encouraged the IRCS to share its wealth of knowledge and experiences with other member states. The forum took place from September 18 to 20 in Saint Petersburg, Russia, and was attended by Razieh Alishvandi, the IRCS director for international affairs, who represented Iran.

In her speech at the forum, Alishvandi underscored the importance of empowering women in various sectors, including social, economic, and political spheres. She spoke about the successful initiatives by the IRCS aimed at empowering vulnerable women and heads of households.

Alishvandi highlighted that numerous women in Iran have taken advantage of the IRCS’s training programs, which encompass essential skills such as:

• First aid
• Relief skills
• Entrepreneurship
• Resilience training during crises
• Basic psychological support

These initiatives are conducted in community-owned Helal (Red Crescent) Houses, which serve as hubs for training and support. Alishvandi proudly noted that many women who complete these programs acquire the necessary skills to become entrepreneurs, contributing positively to their communities and families.

The IRCS’s commitment to social betterment and humanitarian outreach aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the BRICS Civil Council. By fostering collaboration and sharing best practices, the IRCS and BRICS member states can enhance their collective impact in addressing global humanitarian challenges.

In conclusion, the collaboration between the IRCS and BRICS member states represents a promising opportunity to strengthen humanitarian efforts worldwide. By harnessing the IRCS’s extensive experience and capacity, member states can work together to develop innovative solutions for pressing global issues.