World Red Cross Day

Every year on May 8, the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is celebrated. The Red Cross and Red Crescent was founded in honor of the patron Jean-Henri Dunant (author of A Memory of Solferino), on his initiative, the first groups of volunteers were created to help the wounded in combat.

The organization began its activities in 1863 and continues to exist today. Its main purpose is to help all people who have become victims of military conflict, as well as victims of natural disasters and cataclysms.

The Red Cross operates in 176 countries around the world, including Ukraine.

In 1993, by the decision of the UN General Assembly, the society was recognized by the International Committee of the Red Cross, which includes the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement together with the International Federation.

Since the end of 2013, the Society has been working in a special mode in connection with the occupation of Ukrainian territories and provides assistance to frontline territories. After the start of a new phase of the Russian-Ukrainian war on February 24, 2022, the organization is working in an intensified mode.

The back of the American Red Cross building at 18th and E St. NW in Washington, DC.
Photo by Ian Hutchinson on Unsplash