The arrival of two ships carrying Albanian refugees to St Paul’s Bay in August 1991 brought together 18 Maltese individuals who highlighted the need to set up the Malta Red Cross. Since then the Malta Red Cross has continued to respond to the needs of refugees, displaced migrants, evacuees and other local and international needs.

The Red Cross, founded by Henry Dunant in response to the tragic realities more than 150 years ago, embodies a message of humanity to people of all classes, creeds and races as well as embraces an independent and impartial agenda that permits members to carry out tasks in a variety of circumstances.

Twenty years ago, on 24 October 1991, the first president of the Malta Red Cross Society, Professor Frederick Fenech, and the first secretary general, Joseph Micallef, together with the founder members, worked hard to set up the first national board and to obtain recognition from the Maltese government. In fact, a year later, on 19th June 1992, the society was recognised with a parliamentary act as “an independent of, and auxiliary, to the public authorities in the humanitarian field on the basis of the first Geneva Convention of the 12th August 1949”. Since then, the society has constantly proved to be an important reality in the voluntary field, both locally as well as internationally.

Today, the society can look back with pride at 20 years of uninterrupted hard work and numerous achievements in spite of the difficult circumstances the society went through. Each and every volunteer who in one way or another has contributed towards the work of the society, should feel proud that he or she was able to play a leading role in alleviating the suffering of the most vulnerable. These dedicated volunteers generously donate their time and skills to improve the lives of others. They constitute the prime strength of the society, because they are the ones who implement activities and advocate humanitarian values. One must appreciate that in today’s busy world there are still people who are giving a tangible evidence of human compassion and solidarity away from the limelight of public attention. Special thanks also go to a number of corporate members and sponsors, as without their financial support the society would cease to exist.

Volunteers contribute to numerous aspects the society is involved in. These include, among others, the provision of first aid, ambulance service, work with the refugees and migrants, delivery of first aid courses, dissemination of the Movement principles and International Humanitarian Law, support given to local health and civil protection authorities, disaster preparedness and response, raising awareness in local communities on the importance of first aid knowledge, international response during major disasters and in other humanitarian and social aspects.

Twenty years since its inception, the Malta Red Cross Society has demonstrated its relevance and undisputed value, the latest proof being the tremendous work that has been and still is being done behind the scenes in the Libya crisis.

Hence, the setting up of the Malta Red Cross has proved to be a very important milestone for the benefit of the local community. Furthermore, it serves as an important link with the rest of the world by being an active member of the world’s largest humanitarian organisation – the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent movement.

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary one must look back at the achievements and mistakes, but most importantly we must look forward, learn from past mistakes and prepare for the future. It is encouraging to see the society grow into an effective organisation upholding Red Cross principles and playing an increasing important role in Maltese society. This would have not been possible without the support of various people who have contributed to this success. These include current and former national board members, secretariat staff, members and most importantly our volunteers. Special thanks go to two former presidents, Professor Frederick Fenech and Professor Lino Cutajar, who still show interest and are always ready to support the society when it needs it. To all these people, the Malta Red Cross would like to express its gratitude and appreciation.

For more information about Malta Red Cross activities and services send an e-mail to [email protected]

Edward Gruppetta

Vice President

Malta Red Cross Society