The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an impartial, neutral and independent organisation, whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of war and internal violence and to provide them with assistance. It directs and coordinates the international relief activities conducted by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in situations of conflict. It also endeavours to prevent suffering by promoting and strengthening humanitarian law and universal humanitarian principles. Singapore supports the ICRC's humanitarian relief efforts by contributing to the ICRC appeals for humanitarian assistance and makes voluntary contribution annually. During the December 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Singapore provided logistical facilities for the ICRC's relief operations.