ISLAMABAD, AUG 12 /DNA/ – The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) observed International Youth Day and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Day 2026 with a ceremony titled “Youth as Advocates for a Better Tomarrow” at its National Headquarters. International Youth Day was observed under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” The event was attended by ambassadors and diplomats, humanitarian and relief organizations, Heads of Delegation and representatives of IFRC, ICRC, Norwegian Red Cross, Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay), German Red Cross, PRCS staff and volunteers.
Addressing the gathering, PRCS Chairperson Mrs. Farzhana Naek highlighted the crucial role of youth in promoting humanity, protecting dignity and building a better future. Referring to the recent launch of the Red Million Initiative, she said PRCS strengthening its volunteer network by equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, training and confidence required to serve communities and support vulnerable people during emergencies.
Mrs. Naek said PRCS was also preparing youth to address emerging humanitarian challenges, including IHL, protection and harmful information. She urged young people to become responsible advocates of humanity both online and in their communities, emphasizing the importance of verifying information before sharing it and promoting understanding rather than division.
IFRC Head of Delegation Mr. Andreas von Weissenberg highlighted the growing humanitarian impact of harmful information, referring to the World Disasters Report 2026, which identifies it as a de facto humanitarian crisis that can undermine access to aid, erode trust, destabilize social cohesion and increase risks for humanitarian personnel and communities. He appreciated the leadership of PRCS, its staff and volunteers in advancing awareness and action on this emerging challenge.
In his welcome address, PRCS Secretary General emphasized that the convergence of the two observances highlights the vital role of youth in promoting humanity and protecting dignity. He said volunteers are the backbone of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and the strength of PRCS, with young volunteers contributing to disaster response, first aid, health, social welfare and community resilience. He also underscored the importance of IHL, responsible communication and continued Movement support.
The program featured an interactive session on International Humanitarian Law, moderated by ICRC Legal Advisor in Pakistan Mr. Usman Khan, beginning with a video presentation and followed by a question-and-answer session. A documentary on the history of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and the auxiliary role of PRCS was also screened, along with video messages from IFRC and ICRC regional representatives on harmful information, misinformation and disinformation.
Volunteer-produced documentaries from the Youth Mentorship Programme were showcased, while a powerful tableau on “Misinformation and Crisis Response” highlighted the effects of harmful information during emergencies and received strong appreciation from the audience.
Certificates were distributed among Youth Mentorship Programme graduates, while shields were presented to representatives of PRCS Youth Clubs in recognition of their humanitarian services. A special shield was awarded to Mr. Imran Shah, an RFL volunteer serving at the Humanitarian Service Point at the Pak-Afghan Chaman border, for his outstanding contribution and dedicated service to the Restoring Family Links Programme.
The ceremony concluded with appreciation for PRCS staff, volunteers, youth clubs and Movement partners for their continued commitment to strengthening humanitarian action, volunteerism and community resilience across Pakistan.
