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World of Good

World Red Cross Day

When disaster strikes—whether it’s a devastating natural event such as a powerful hurricane or earthquake, a health outbreak such as Ebola, or a mass evacuation of people fleeing war-torn countries, Red Cross organizations around the globe are quick to respond.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is a global humanitarian network of approximately 80 million people. Its mission is to assist those facing disaster, conflict, and health and social problems, and it has a presence and activities in nearly every country.

The Movement incorporates the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), as well as National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the globe.

Held annually on May 8th, World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is a celebration of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Every year, the societies organize activities within local communities worldwide to highlight their roles in these regions. People worldwide are invited to celebrate the bravery and achievements of the volunteers and staff members who are committed to humanity.

The day is observed on May 8th since that date marks the anniversary of the birth of Henry Dunant—founder of the Red Cross and the recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize.

The IFRC’s history can be traced back to Dunant’s initial idea and plan to deliver aid to approximately 40,000 men who were lying wounded or dead in Italy during a battle in 1859 between the armies of imperial Austria and the Franco-Sardinian alliance.

Since the men lacked medical attention, Dunant developed a plan to organize the locals, so they could provide relief. Later, he called for the creation of national relief societies to assist those wounded in war.

Sparked by Dunant’s plan, the Red Cross was officially founded in 1863 in Geneva, Switzerland when Dunant founded the “Committee of Five” with four other leaders from prominent Geneva families. It later became known as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Its emblem was a red cross on a white background—the inverse of the Swiss flag. In 1864, 12 governments adopted the first Geneva Conventions—rules that apply only in times of armed conflict and seek to protect people who aren’t—or are no longer taking part in hostilities. These include the sick and wounded of armed forces on the field, as well as wounded, sick, and shipwrecked members of armed forces at sea. It also includes prisoners of war and civilians. The Geneva Conventions evolved from Dunant’s earlier efforts.

Every year, World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is supported by Red Cross organizations worldwide. The philosophy is that as vulnerabilities continue to increase globally, so will humanitarian needs. Support can be offered through volunteer efforts, by donating money, or via other initiatives.

For more on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, and the Red Cross, read The Red Cross Magazine, The Way of the Red Cross by E.C. Vivian, and the History of American Red Cross Nursing.

By Regina Molaro