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.
Plain language: The Austrian Red Cross is a special public organization that helps people in emergencies and is overseen by the government's interior ministry.
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.
Plain language: The Red Cross must help everyone equally without favoring any political, religious, or racial group, following international humanitarian rules.
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.
Plain language: Only the Red Cross can legally use its special symbol to protect its staff and buildings during emergencies, and others are banned from using it.
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.
Plain language: The government provides money to the Red Cross, which must be spent only on helping people, preparing for disasters, and training volunteers.
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.
Plain language: The Red Cross is run by an elected assembly and board of directors, who must follow rules approved by the government.