What is the difference?
Students often become confused between the concepts of neutrality and impartiality. Since each is important in humanitarian efforts, students need to be clear on the distinct meaning of each.
Using terms like "not taking sides" and "giving equal treatment" can help younger students understand the difference.
1. The idea of working principles 
(10 minutes)
Discuss the idea that people adopt principles to guide their work.
Possible questions:
- Do you know of any specific codes that regulate the behaviour of people in their professions?
[For example: the Hippocratic oath, which lists rules and duties for doctors; codes of ethics for journalists, which forbid journalists from disclosing the sources of their information if doing so might endanger the informants or violate their privacy; the attorney-client privilege, which keeps the communication between lawyers and their clients confidential] 
- What principles do you think should guide humanitarian workers in acting on behalf of victims of armed conflict?
Tell students that all humanitarian organizations have codes of conduct. Explain that the broad goal of humanitarian action is to prevent and alleviate suffering and to protect life and dignity (humanity). To achieve this goal, humanitarian organizations give aid without discrimination of any kind (impartiality). In addition, the ICRC's code of conduct specifically requires it not to take sides (neutrality) and to remain detached from political and military interests (independence).
Display the principles of impartiality, neutrality and independence – as listed below – where all can see, and explain the ICRC’s interpretation of each.
Explain to students that these principles are not themselves the goal of humanitarian action, but essential means to carry out humanitarian tasks.
Impartiality (no discrimination, priority based on needs) The ICRC does not discriminate among people on the grounds of their nationality, race, gender, religious beliefs, social class or political opinions. Its work is guided solely by the needs of individuals, with priority being given to the most urgent cases.
Neutrality (not taking sides) In order to secure the confidence of all parties, the ICRC refrains from taking sides armed conflict or other situations of violence or in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.
Independence (resisting pressure) The ICRC resists any pressure from outsiders – whether they are donors, international bodies, governments or armed groups – that would affect its ability to respond effectively to humanitarian needs, in keeping with its principles.
