By Yun Makara
During the month of June, Universities across Cambodia held Cambodia Red Cross dissemination presentations, to provide university students with a basic understanding of the history and principles of the Cambodia Red Cross. The University of Cambodia held the dissemination on June 16th, 2014, Mr. An Sopheak, Director of Administration and Chair of the UCCRCY Advisor Committee, presided over the presentation and provided the opening remarks.
Mr. Kongvong Seyvisal gave a presentation about the history of the Cambodian Red Cross (CRC), the largest humanitarian organization in Cambodia. The CRC is offi cially recognized by the Royal government as an auxiliary to the public authorities in humanitarian services to relieve the sufferings of the most vulnerable in society. Three general assemblies have been held; the first term was held by Princess Norodom Marie Ranariddh, who held the post of President of the CRC from 1994-1998, the second and third terms were held by Samdech Kattibrittbindit Bun Rany HunSen, who held the post of President of the CRC from 1998-2002 and was re-elected in August of 2002. Her Majesty Queen Norodom Monineath Sihanouk residing as honorary president since 1994.
After the presentation of the history of the Cambodian Red Cross, Mr. Roeut Sokhon the Coordinator Officer of Cambodia Red Cross Youth gave a presentation about the significance of the emblem of international Red Cross organizations. The red cross or crescent on a white background has become an internationally recognized symbol of neutrality and protection. It also symbolizes the movement’s seven fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. The international Red Cross organizations have been providing assistance and relief to those in need for generations, this dissemination project aimed at providing the youth of Cambodia with the knowledge of this honorable organization.
The University of Cambodia in association with the Cambodian Red Cross encourage students to give to those in need and aspire to humanitarian values, as espoused in the fundamental principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent international organizations.
