International FAQs

What organizations comprise the International Red Cross Movement?
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is a phrase that symbolizes the unity of all Red Cross work carried out by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC); the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies; and national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies or their equivalents around the world, including the American Red Cross; and the Magen David Adom in Israel.

Is the Red Crescent connected to the Red Cross?
Yes. Although the red cross is not a religious symbol, the symbol of the red crescent is used instead of the red cross by national societies in most Islamic countries. Both Red Cross and Red Crescent national societies are part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
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In how many countries is the Red Cross present?
There are more than 177 Red Cross and Red Crescent national societies and, in Israel, the Magen David Adom. Additionally, there are some 115 operational international Red Cross delegations carrying out humanitarian missions in areas of disaster, armed conflict, or civil disturbance around the world.

Is it possible for clients to send medicine, money, or other articles through Red Cross?
No. The American Red Cross can not mail any of the above to individuals overseas.

What factors affect the length of time for receiving a Red Cross Message?
The length of time it takes for RCMs to reach a chapter/station can be affected by delays in getting the RCM out of the conflict area/ refugees camp. Our goal is to mail all RCMs to chapters within 10 days or less from the date they are received from overseas. High RCM volume at times prevents us from meeting that standard.