Joint training initiatives aimed at strengthening the skills of volunteers in Bahrain are set to be launched as the Bahrain Red Crescent Society (BRCS) steps up co-operation with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)following high-level talks in Manama.
Held at the BRCS headquarters at the Diplomatic Area, the meetings focused on strengthening joint response frameworks and expanding collaboration across relief and training programmes.
The talks brought together BRCS chairman Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, secretary general Mubarak Al Hadi, and ICRC delegation head Mamadou Sow and other senior officials.
Discussions centred on enhancing co-ordination in responding to humanitarian crises and developing more agile and effective mechanisms to address evolving challenges across the region.
Both sides agreed to expand joint training initiatives to strengthen the capabilities of volunteers and humanitarian personnel in line with international standards.
Lt Gen Dr Shaikh Mohammed said the society places strong importance on strengthening its partnership with ICRC, particularly considering the exceptional circumstances facing the region.
“Continued engagement with the ICRC allows the society to benefit from global experience and refine its approach to aid distribution and relief operations, helping ensure assistance reaches beneficiaries efficiently and without delay,” he said.
“Further co-ordination has been agreed for a series of follow-up meetings between the ICRC delegation and the Society’s specialised committees.
“There will be a focus on deepening technical co-operation, exchanging expertise and addressing field level challenges to ensure better alignment of humanitarian efforts.”
Mr Sow praised the BRCS for its ongoing work, highlighting its role in first aid services and psychosocial support.
“The society has drawn strong participation from across Bahrain and the GCC through its specialised training programmes,” he said.
“Expanding these efforts contributes to building more resilient and prepared communities.
“ICRC is keen to further strengthen co-operation with BRCS, building on a longstanding humanitarian partnership and a track record of joint achievements in the field.”
Meanwhile, Mr Al Hadi said the society’s strength lies in its highly trained national cadres and its readiness to respond immediately to humanitarian emergencies. He added that the society’s achievements locally and internationally reflect its adherence to the core principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Last month, a specialised virtual workshop aimed at strengthening the preparedness of personnel and volunteers, and further enhancing their ability to respond to various emergency situations, was conducted by the BRCS.
The workshop – titled ‘Field Assessment for Effective Emergency Response’ – stressed that accuracy in assessment must take precedence over the speed of response, as it plays a crucial role in reducing risks.
The exercise aimed at enhancing participants’ field assessment skills and strengthening their ability to make swift, informed decisions based on precise information gathered directly from the scene – particularly during the initial stages, which are critical in managing emergency situations.
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