Red Cross Law

The Austrian Red Cross is recognized as a public-law corporation with the primary mission of providing humanitarian aid and disaster relief services. It operates under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of the Interior and is granted specific privileges to ensure the continuity of its emergency response capabilities.

The organization shall maintain strict neutrality and impartiality in all its operations, adhering to the fundamental principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. No political, religious, or racial discrimination shall influence the distribution of aid or the provision of medical services.

The Federal Government may grant the Austrian Red Cross exclusive rights to use the Red Cross emblem for the protection of medical personnel and facilities during armed conflicts or civil disturbances. Unauthorized use of this emblem by other entities is strictly prohibited and subject to administrative penalties.

The Austrian Red Cross is entitled to receive financial contributions from the federal budget and from the states to support its statutory tasks. These funds must be utilized exclusively for humanitarian purposes, disaster preparedness, and the training of volunteer personnel as defined by law.

The organization shall establish a general assembly and a board of directors to manage its internal affairs and strategic direction. Members of these governing bodies must be elected in accordance with the statutes approved by the competent federal authority.