Chapter I General Provisions

Article 1 This Law is enacted with a view to protecting human life and health, safeguarding human dignity, developing the humanitarian spirit, promoting the cause of peace and progress, and ensuring and standardizing the performance of its functions and duties by the Red Cross Society according to law.

Article 2 The Red Cross Society of China is a unified Red Cross organization of the People's Republic of China and a social relief organization engaged in humanitarian work.

Article 3 Citizens of the People's Republic of China who recognize the Constitution of the Red Cross Society of China and pay membership dues, regardless of nationality, race, sex, occupation, religious belief or level of education, may join the Red Cross Society of China on a voluntary basis.

Enterprises, public institutions and relevant organizations may become group members of the Red Cross Society through application.

The state encourages natural persons, legal persons and other organizations to participate in voluntary services of the Red Cross.

The State supports Red Cross youth work in schools.

Article 4 The Red Cross Society of China shall abide by the Constitution and laws, observe the basic principles established by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and carry out its work independently in accordance with the Geneva Conventions and their additional protocols ratified or acceded to by China and the Articles of Association of the Red Cross Society of China.

The National congress of the Members of the Red Cross Society of China shall, in accordance with law, formulate or amend the articles of association of the Red Cross Society of China, which shall not contravene the Constitution or other laws.

Article 5 The people's governments at various levels shall provide support and financial aid to the Red Cross Society, ensure that it performs its functions and duties according to law and supervise its activities.