CONCEPT NOTE
1. Venue : Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
2. Dates : March 2011
3. Participants : MENA National Societies
4. Observers : Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and non-Movement partners
working with the MENA National Societies
5. Background and Context
Conducted every two years since 1999, the MENA conferences provide useful platforms
bringing together the National Societies from the three regions of the Gulf, Middle East and
North Africa to discuss topical issues of common concern . The significance of the issues
discussed often transcends national and regional boundaries and carries implications within
the wider global context especially within the International RC/RC Movement
Taking stock of the overall progress/challenges within the RC/RC context since the 6th
conference held in Damascus in 2009, the 7th conference will explore the current issues and
emerging trends impacting National RC/RC Societies in terms of both operations and
strategic considerations. The conference will also reflect on how effectively Strategy 2020
can be adapted and implemented within the MENA Zone.
3. Suggested Topics for Discussion ((Thematic Papers, Group Work Sessions)
 RC/RC lead role in raising humanitarian standards
 Increasing outreach, quality and impact as driving factors for RC/RC services
 RC/RC commitment and contribution to development improving the lives of the
most vulnerable through traditional and non-traditional approaches
 Enhanced RC/RC development and contribution with full realization of their
auxiliary role working together with public authorities and other supporters
 Greater RC//RC relevance/effectiveness making a difference through
partnerships.
4 Steering Committee
A steering committee, consisting of the Syrian Arab RC(the host for the 6th MENA
Conference), the United Arab Emirates (the host for the 7th Conference) and the MENA
Zone of the Federation Secretariat will be in charge of the preparation and coordination
of the conference including
 Setting up the agenda in consultation with the National Societies
 Defining the plan of action and detailing the steps to be taken at all levels
 Ensuring that all the organizational, technical and financial requirements for the
conference are properly planned and managed.