زینب پورخاقان شاهرضایی

INTRODUCTION: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is an international non-governmental organization that provides a wide range of humanitarian services to its stakeholders. In an environment marked by growing complexities and challenges in humanitarian crises, commitment to good governance is crucial for effective response strategies. The aim of this study is to examine the extent to which good governance has been realized in the IFRC's operational and functional domains by analyzing available data. METHODS: This qualitative study examines the extent to which good governance has been achieved in the operational and functional areas of the IFRC using discourse analysis, literature review, and studying documents through examining historical documents, the IFRC's regulations, and the reports of the internal audit office over the past 50 years. FINDINGS: According to the findings, adherence to good governance principles enhances the legitimacy and effectiveness of IFRC operations. The development of ethical standards, transparency and accountability in resource management, and employee ethics and conduct are key factors in maintaining public trust and combating corruption. In the meantime, with an emphasis on impartiality, adherence to humanitarian principles, and attracting global support, the principle of integrity plays a central role, especially in rescue and relief operations. CONCLUSION: This study emphasizes the importance of IFRC’s fundamental principles such as humanity, impartiality, and independence as the foundations of decision-making in crises. As humanitarian needs evolve, strengthening these principles is essential to improve performance and preserve the dignity of those affected, also there is a need to focus on developing frameworks to better integrate these principles into operational strategies.