History of the Monaco Red Cross
Founded on 3rd March 1948 by Prince Louis II, the Monaco Red Cross was recognised the same year by the International Committee of the Red Cross and admitted to the International Federation.
It is one of 191 national societies that make up the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and adheres to its seven Fundamental Principles.
Its mission is to save lives, prepare populations for natural disasters, provide non-discriminatory support to all those in need, and conduct humanitarian awareness and prevention campaigns — both in Monaco and internationally.
The organisation was presided over by Prince Rainier III from 1949 to 1958, and by Princess Grace from 1958 to 1982. Since 17th December 1982, it has been presided over by H.S.H. Prince Albert II.
Over the decades, the Monaco Red Cross has continued to evolve, creating numerous sections that support individuals and countries in need.
It is governed by a Board of Directors composed of 17 members appointed for a three-year term, and a smaller Executive Committee including the Vice-President, H.S.H. Princess Charlene, the Secretary General, Mr Frédéric Platini, and the Treasurer General, Mrs Bettina Ragazzoni.
In 2021, its statutes were revised to comply with Monegasque legislation and international standards. A new Code of Conduct was adopted in 2022, replacing the previous Volunteer Charter.