New Cooperation Agreement

The 30th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) was organised 26 – 30 November 2007 in Geneva/Switzerland.


The 30th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) was organised 26 – 30 November 2007 in Geneva/Switzerland.

On this Occasion the ILS-IFRC Cooperation Agreement has been signed in a ceremony on 27 November 2007 in Geneva. On behalf of IFRC the Head of the Health and Care Department, Dr. Bruce Eshaya-Chauvin signed the agreement, Vice President Dr. Klaus Wilkens signed on behalf of ILS.

Both signatories stressed the importance of this joint letter of co-operation, which shall strengthen the National Red Cross Societies and the National Lifesaving Organisations to put the comprehensive approach to the fight against drowning through prevention, lifesaving education and water rescue services into concrete plans and action.

The Agreement is the base for a co-operation in the areas of:

  • Initiating contacts and meetings between ILS representatives and relevant staff of Red Cross National Societies;
  • Supporting activities which build national capacity and enable that capacity to play a full part in their countries;
  • Co-operating in the development and exchange of teaching and educational material;
  • Extending mutual invitations to congresses and symposia with medical-, general- and particular questions concerning lifesaving, water rescue service and disaster prevention.
  • Periodically meetings are planned between both organisations to share experience and re¬view the progress of collaboration and discussing any specific opportunities for future collaboration.