International Recipe Book
About
This activity is a great way to learn about International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and its role in various countries while sharing aspects of culture, particularly for the countries of origin of the included recipes. Facts about IHL or the annual Youth Action Campaign (YAC) topic should be incorporated throughout the recipe book to add to the educational experience.
Purpose
Each recipe should include some background of its country of origin. Consider countries that have suffered through armed conflict. Their stories can be told and related to the YAC annual theme or IHL in general, adding to the experience of collaborating and sharing culture. Through the various IHL or YAC topic-related facts, the recipe book offers all those who read it the chance to learn about IHL and its applications worldwide! Furthermore, if you use this activity as a fundraiser, the money donated will be given to the Red Cross to support its mission. However, before you do so, talk with your YAC Coordinator for additional information.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Set Clear Goals and Objectives
Define your desired outcomes for the activity and create measurable goals and objectives to guide the planning process. We encourage you to integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations into your activity and be creative with your approaches.
Step 2: Plan the Details
Brainstorm a high-level timeline for executing each activity segment, such as:
• Collecting the recipes and stories (4 weeks)
• Editing the recipes and stories (2 weeks)
• Designing the recipe book (2 weeks)
• Publishing the recipe book
Step 3: Coordinate the Logistics
Set a date and time
• Determine the date when all recipes must be submitted. Remember that you will need time to draft the final electronic copy with the International Humanitarian Law information included.
Secure a venue
• This is only applicable if you plan to prepare dishes using the instructions provided in the recipes
Assign roles and responsibilities
• This activity requires volunteers to collect the recipes, research the facts, and design the recipe book.
Gather supplies
• Create a list of supplies needed and arrange to acquire them in advance.
Spread the word
• Advertise the activity through various channels such as social media, email, and school announcements.
• Send a reminder with important details prior to the activity.
• Tag @YouthVoices4IHL and @americanredcrossyouth on Instagram or using the hashtags #IHLYouthActionCampaign to be spotlighted!
Step 4: Facilitate the Activity
Collect the recipes and stories
• Request recipes through various channels such as social media, email, and school announcements. You can also email friends, family, your community, and local restaurants and cafes!
• (Optional) Reach out to other schools or Red Cross Clubs and ask if they would be interested in participating or sharing their favorite recipes.
• Be sure to include clear instructions (or acceptance criteria) for the recipes page to be accepted. The recipes should include stories/current events/historical events about how IHL is/was protected or violated in their recipe’s country of origin.
Combine all the recipes you received
• You can be creative with how you format them or use the template in the activity guide (see Additional Resources section).
Distribute the recipe book
• Determine how you will distribute the recipe book. We suggest creating an electronic recipe book to be easily shared and downloaded. Credit everyone who contributed to the recipe book and send them a copy.
Step 5: Debrief and Thank Your Volunteers
• Invite participants to discuss their experiences and capture lessons learned.
• Thank everyone who contributed and participated.
• Remind volunteers to record their hours through Volunteer Connection.
• Inform participants that they can contact IHLYouth@redcross.org and follow @YouthVoices4IHL on Instagram if they are interested in learning more or getting more involved.
Additional Resources
Recipe book cover page
Recipe Template
American Red Cross IHL Resources
Geneva Academy Refugee Law Overview