Operating in conflict affected countries

Holcim has a long history in engaging with the communities where we operate. However, in conflict affected countries, a strong external partner is needed to define and implement humanitarian action. For this reason Holcim joined the Corporate Support Group of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) at the beginning of 2010. The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Jakob Kellenberger, and the CEO of Holcim Ltd, Markus Akermann, signed a long-term agreement during the World Economic Forum meetings in Davos, Switzerland. As a new member of the ICRC Corporate Support Group, Holcim will fund humanitarian projects as part of its commitment to sustainable development.

Speaking at the signing of the agreement, Mr Kellenberger said, " We are very pleased that Holcim has joined the ICRC's corporate support group and look forward to strengthening our relationship with the company.This partnership will make an important contribution toward our efforts to alleviate the suffering of victims of armed conflict and violence."

Mr Akerman stated, "This partnership enables us to work with an organization that enjoys exceptional international credibility protecting the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflicts. We would like to support humanitarian projects in conflict regions, where both Holcim and the ICRC operate."
With this collaboration we would like to target specific humanitarian projects in conflict-affected countries, where both Holcim and the ICRC operate, promoting projects linked to our business activities .Holcim initially supported a program to provide clean water in Sudan in 2009. Improving access to water for vulnerable people in rural areas of Sudan will continue to be the focus in 2010. In addition, Holcim will support the ICRC's efforts to improve water supply and sanitation systems in other conflict-affected communities such as Colombia. Together with the ICRC, Holcim will define, on a yearly basis, the scope of the joint activities in selected countries. In addition, the two organizations intend to share their expertise and experiences in areas of mutual interest such as crisis and risk management, provision of water services and infrastructure development.

Holcim is the first company from the building materials industry to join the ICRC Corporate Support Group. Created in 2005, the Group now consists of 10 members who are the ICRC's "preferred partners."

For more information on the ICRC's corporate support group, please click here