Every year on 8 May, World Red Cross Day is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize.  In 1863, Henry founded the International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) in Geneva, Switzerland.

World Red Cross Day is recognized as Red Crescent Day also. The world Red Cross Day is dedicated to helping people who suffer from natural calamities, shortage of food, epidemic disease, or war. Even many government and private organizations become active members to help needy people. There are almost 97 Lakhs Members of the Red Cross Committee, who help in every task to provide relief to the humans worldwide. 

History of World Red Cross Day

The idea of Red Cross was introduced, after World War I but after World War II, in 1946, the proposal was studied by the League of Red Cross Societies (LRCS) and after two years on 8 May 1948, the first “World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day” was celebrated.

Seven principles of Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement

1. Humanity- The main objective is to protect the life, health, and ensure respect for every human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, and cooperation among all people.

2. Impartiality- There is no discrimination based on religious beliefs, race, nationality, or political opinions. It gives importance to people who are in distress condition irrespective of caste, color, and race.

3. Neutrality: The main objective of this movement is not to take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious, or ideological nature.

4. Independence: The Red Cross Committee is independent. The National Societies, that promotes human welfare of their respective countries, should always maintain their freedom so that they are able to act with the principles of the movement.

5. Voluntary Service: It is a voluntary relief movement.  Not work for any personal gain.

6. Unity: There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any one country and that must be open to all.

 7. Universality:  The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.

Information source: https://www.icrc.org/en