‘Survival first’ expresses a simple principle: in the face of a crisis, priority must be given to those whose lives, health, safety or dignity are directly threatened.
Secours International focuses its initial resources on the needs essential for survival: protection, healthcare, water, food, shelter and access to essential services. The urgency of the situation and the level of vulnerability determine the order in which interventions are carried out.
Aid is organised on the basis of identified needs, without discrimination. Particular attention is paid to those most at risk, whilst communities are involved in defining the responses that affect them.
The response goes beyond first aid. It supports the restoration of essential services, the resumption of community life and the building of the capacity needed to better cope with future crises.
« “Survival First” thus links immediate emergency response, the protection of human dignity and sustainable reconstruction. »