This guideline helps Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies design and lead effective strategic planning processes.
It provides clear explanations of what strategic thinking is, why it matters, and how to translate it into an inclusive and purposeful strategy.
Readers will find practical guidance on how to prepare for a planning process, consult with partners, analyse data, make strategic choices, and engage branches, volunteers and communities.
It also covers how to move from plan to implementation, how to connect strategy with annual operational planning, and how to build a culture of ongoing reflection, adaptation and learning.
The document highlights common challenges and shares lessons and tools to address them. Ultimately, it is designed to help National Societies strengthen ownership, cohesion, and long-term relevance through strategic planning.
