How close is the relationship with the Cuban government?
XC: The Red Cross is auxiliary to the work of the Cuban government, which plays a big role in damage limitation and relief work. The IFRC and Cuban Red Cross work with the government. The government builds houses and the Red Cross puts roofs on them and kits them out. We also give out packs of bathroom, bedroom and kitchen equipment. The national Red Cross societies always work closely with governments to make sure there is no duplication in the work that they do. In the aftermath of a disaster, uncoordinated work is a waste of everyone’s effort. AN: Do the international Federation and other countries play a part? XC: The IFRC supports the Cuban Red Cross by promoting better understanding of its needs and ensuring there is a coherent plan of action to support to the most affected people after a hurricane. In the aftermath of Hurricane Lili, the German Red Cross and others helped western Cuba to recover. Other societies give money to help achieve the Red Cross’ humanitarian plan of acti
