Who We Are
ICVA is a global network of non-governmental organisations whose mission is to make humanitarian action more principled and effective by working collectively and independently to influence policy and practice.
Established in 1962 by a small coalition of refugee and migration focused non-governmental organisations (NGOs), ICVA has grown into a diverse network of over 100 NGO members operating in 160 countries at global, regional, national and local levels.
ICVA helps its members understand, engage and influence the humanitarian sector with a focus on:
- Forced migration;
- Humanitarian coordination;
- Humanitarian financing; and
- Cross-cutting issues.
A "bridge" between humanitarian actors
ICVA connects the voices of its members in order to:
- Share and exchange experiences and information;
- Collaborate on common issues;
- Harness varying perspectives and inspire each other;
- Engage with and influence other actors, including the UN, governments and regional organisations.
The idea that drives us
The vision of ICVA is a world in which crises-affected populations are effectively protected, assisted, and enabled to rebuild their lives and livelihoods with dignity.
Our values and principles
- Our work is based on the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independance as well as the Principles of Partnership.
- We work towards a system that enables people affected by humanitarian crises to receive equitable access to quality assistance and protection.
- We promote innovative approaches to humanitarian policy development and implementation, and offer evidence-based, solutions-oriented advocacy.
- We promote equitable engagement of NGOs to make the humanitarian system more inclusive.