The Red Cross of Montenegro (RCM) has been formally admitted to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, as its 186th member. The ceremony took place during the opening plenary session of the International Federation's General Assembly, on 20 November.

The Assembly brings together some 700 delegates from Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world, to discuss current humanitarian issues and adopt new policies. The General Assembly is the International Federation's highest decision-making body.

In his congratulatory and welcoming address, Federation President Juan Manuel Suárez del Toro pointed out that although the Red Cross Society of Montenegro was the Federation’s newest member, it was, in fact, one of the oldest National Societies. Founded in 1875, and recognized by the International Committee of the Red Cross a year later, it operated first in the context of Yugoslavia and later, of the Union of Serbia and Montenegro.

"I would like to underline that, throughout all these years, the Red Cross of Montenegro has remained attached to its humanitarian mission, grounded in our fundamental principles,” said the president. “Our brothers in Montenegro can count on our entire support to achieve their objectives, which are also ours.”

In his speech, the President of the Red Cross of Montenegro Prof. Dr. Asim Dizdarevic referred to this “grand moment”, for his National Society. “In a region marred by violence and conflict, we have a long history of looking after the wounded, the sick, and those in greatest need,” he noted. “But we are well aware of the responsibilities we face and we know that our proven skills to respond to mass disasters need to be strengthened to respond to future needs. We accept modern solutions and are broadening our activities. We are confident that we deserve your trust,” he concluded.

The activities of the Red Cross of Montenegro focus on medical care and health services for the most vulnerable populations, including refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, as well as HIV/AIDS, first aid and psychological support programmes, the tracing of missing persons and the dissemination of International Humanitarian Law.