1 - The Contemporary ICRC and Its Critics

Summary

The first chapter introduces different ICRC alumni who are critics of current trends in ICRC policy. While not all alumni have the same views, some allege the organization is undermining its image as an independent and neutral humanitarian actor by such moves as allowing the ICRC president to be on the board of trustees of the World Economic Forum. Some also allege that Geneva has undertaken such broad field activities that it has weakened its reputation linked primarily to international humanitarian law and especially the protection of prisoners, including political prisoners. This introduction to claims of an ICRC in decline by experienced critics who closely follow the ICRC today, based on access to key information, sets the stage for the rest of the book. The author suggests in a preliminary way that the critics raise important points, although some may be more valid or important than others.