Acting President of Venezuela Delcy Rodríguez signed, on Doctor's Day, a law on the Venezuelan Red Cross, paving the way for its official promulgation. This legal act fundamentally changes the organization's status, defining it now as a public-law entity that will serve as an auxiliary institution to state authorities. The law's main goals are modernizing the Red Cross's infrastructure, strengthening transparency in its operations, and formally incorporating it into the National Risk Management System, which should bolster the country's humanitarian capacity.
The signing ceremony, held at the presidential palace, gathered high-ranking officials, including Vice President Isabel Iturria, the Minister of Health, and members of parliament. Also present were the Red Cross leadership headed by Luis Manuel Farías, international delegates, and honorary volunteers, among them nurse Maria Teresa Parima, recently awarded the highest international honor for 74 years of professional service. The event was part of the Doctor's Day celebrations, underscoring the state's recognition of the medical community's contributions.
The adoption of this law is seen as an important legislative milestone intended to guarantee compliance with international humanitarian law standards and to create mechanisms of state oversight and support to expand the Red Cross's social activities. Addressing attendees, Delcy Rodríguez highly praised the dedication of medical workers and thanked all the country's doctors for their contribution to the nation's health. In this way, Venezuela declares its readiness to strengthen protections for those who save lives and to develop humanitarian institutions in line with state health policy goals.
Full version: Presidenta encargada firmó Ley de la Cruz Roja para su promulgación en conmemoración por el Día del Médico