The Ukrainian Red Cross presents Ukrainian expertise in inclusive first aid training in Dubai

On 24–25 August, the final of the international DIHAD First Aid World Cup 2026 was held in Dubai. Following the preliminary selection process, the Ukrainian Red Cross won the European stage and earned the right to represent the entire European region in the competition’s final.

Anna Nikolska, a specialist with the First Aid Department of the National Committee of the Ukrainian Red Cross and co-author of a research and methodological study aimed at promoting inclusive first aid training, presented an innovative approach in the field of first aid: using first aid techniques as a tool for the social rehabilitation and integration of people with physical disabilities, supporting their return to everyday life in their communities.

At the final, the Ukrainian Red Cross received a certificate of distinction and an award in recognition of its commitment to addressing the needs of people with disabilities and its work to develop updated inclusive methodologies for first aid training.

This is the first time the Ukrainian Red Cross has achieved such a result at an international first aid competition, despite the challenges and dangers caused by the full-scale war.

“It is important to us that first aid is accessible to everyone. We should not divide people — we are one community. That is why we are developing inclusive approaches to training, so that everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, can access life-saving knowledge and skills,” says Nadiia Yamnenko, Master First Aid Trainer and Head of the First Aid Programme at the Ukrainian Red Cross.

Participation in the DIHAD First Aid World Cup 2026 was the Ukrainian Red Cross’s first experience of presenting its work and expertise at the final of an international competition of this kind.