Ladies and gentlemen,

On behalf of the Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia, I am especially pleased to warmly welcome you at the celebration of the 77th anniversary of the foundation of our organization.

Jubilees are a great opportunity to look back in time, to announce the results of what has been done, to share information, to announce future plans, but also an opportunity for reminders.

Since 1945, in the creation of our organization and the effects of its work, a large number of volunteers, employees, supporters, countless named and nameless activists have been involved who over time have left their mark in our organization, which today is for their and our recognition, and not only in the past but also in the future.

This reminds us of the simple truth that it has always been and is a pride to be part of the largest army of humanists in the world who selflessly gave their part, to prevent and reduce the suffering of those who have fallen into trouble for various reasons, because those who have and can, cannot be calm as long as there are those who do not have and cannot. The more we have and create an opportunity for even more dynamic development, the more we owe to those who were before us.

Since 1945, a large number of volunteers, staff, and supporters, countless named and nameless activists have been involved in the creation of our organization and the effects of our work and over time they have left their mark in our organization, which serves today as our and their recognition, for the past and future achievements.

This reminds us of the simple truth that it has always been and is a pride to be part of the largest army of humanitarian workers in the world who selflessly give their contribution in prevention and reduction of the suffering of those who have found themselves in unfavorable situation due to various reasons, because those who have and can, cannot be calm as long as there are those who do not have and cannot. The more we have and create an opportunity for more dynamic development, the more we owe to those who were before us.

Our work over the years is just an argumentative testimony of the people’s humanity and solidarity that helps to overcome the human abyss that causes the apocalypse in human life. The power of humanity ensures that the Red Cross is embedded in solidarity and humanity among people. We are enough people in the Movement and we can do it, so that no one in the world is left alone and helpless, and we are worth as much as we the others need us.

To our great satisfaction, the number of volunteers in the organization is increasing every year. And this is not a coincidence. We succeed in our efforts to nurture a sincere and warm atmosphere for the realization of noble activities, so many of our citizens recognize the Red Cross as a place for building friendships and learning and knowledge sharing, a place to volunteer, to join, to dedicate part of their lives. All together for 77 years we were exactly where it was needed.

We are glad that over the years, the Red Cross has always had a future – we are an organization that is attractive to young people who are interested in learning and volunteering, sharing humanitarian values ​​and principles, helping and upgrading and then growing into a social responsible persons who make a special contribution to the development of the local communities where they live. The older people are always with us, faithful to the Red Cross, and today they are just as active as when they got involved, and also share their experiences and knowledge, showing that at every age of human life there is a place and time for humanity and solidarity and a helping hand to the people who need it.

We are committed to building trust with the people and communities we serve, with our donors, partners, and the public, and within our Movement. We have always played the role of an auxiliary to the authorities in the country and we have constantly received public support and support from the authorities, for which we are immensely grateful. We continuously invest in strengthening our transparency and accountability, and improving support systems and strengthening integrity and establishing personal and institutional accountability.

Today, the work of the Red Cross of RSM is undoubtedly more relevant and needed than ever. But we need to continue to improve in order to adapt to a world that is constantly and rapidly changing. Our efforts will be aimed at further promoting individual and shared values ​​with an emphasis on raising awareness for the protection of human dignity. We will strive to implement modern ways of functioning and acting that will contribute to the modernization and monitoring of world trends in modern operations. We are determined to continue to be wherever we need to be.

Dear,

Today, the Red Cross of RNM is an organization of dignified, humane and solidarity people which enables room for new hopes, a modern National Society, a serious contributor to the humanitarian effects in the country, the region and beyond. We are deeply aware that we must be in step with the time and to be prepared for transformation and adaptation, but also determined to continue to be the conscience and the awareness of today’s civilization.

We continue to work to provide a more dignified life for people who need support, based on human values, mutual support, solidarity, trying to always be where it is most needed. We invite you to be part of our story which means saved lives, dignity and smiles at people’s faces. To be more numerous, stronger, more powerful.

We do not need to go to much back in history, it is enough to remember what happened in the world in the last two years. Among all the significant pandemic lessons, there is one undeniable truth – human beings were not created to be alone. In trouble, it does not matter who you are, or where you are, or what you are like, or how much you have. We are all the same when we face diseases, disasters when we are in trouble. We all need someone to give us a hand, to say a warm word, consolation, hope. To make sure that someone is always there, by our side, as a solid support that offers help, a solution, and at the same time not to ask for anything in return.

I invite you all together and in the future, always to be where needed!

Thank you for your attention.