World Red Cross Day on 8th May

World Red Cross Day is observed every year on 8th May to celebrate the work of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. This day honors the efforts of volunteers who help people in need during emergencies and disasters. It also marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). He started the Red Cross in 1863 to provide care and support during wars and crises. The day is a reminder of the importance of helping others and promoting humanity, peace, and kindness worldwide.

World Red Cross Day 2025 Theme

The theme for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 is “Keeping Humanity Alive.” It highlights the dedication of Red Cross and Red Crescent workers who provide help where it is needed the most. This theme reminds us of the importance of showing compassion and care, especially during times of rising inequality, health crises, and conflicts. It encourages people to spread kindness, peace, and hope in their communities. At the same time, it honors the efforts of those who work on the front lines to support others and keep the spirit of humanity strong in difficult times.

Seven Principles of the Red Cross Society

• Humanity: The main objective is to defend life and health and to ensure respect for human beings. It encourages mutual understanding, friendship, and cooperation among all people.
• Impartiality: It does not discriminate based on nationality, race, religious beliefs, class, or political opinions. The main aim is to help individuals on the basis of their requirements and to give preference to the most urgent cases of distress.
• Neutrality: In order to keep the confidence of all, the movement does not engage in controversies of a political, racial, religious, or ideological nature.
• Independence: The movement is independent. The National Societies, which assist in the humanitarian services of the governments and are subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always keep their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act by the principles of the movement.
• Voluntary service: It is a voluntary relief movement not provoked in any manner by a desire for gain.
• Unity: The Red Cross society must carry on its philanthropic work throughout its territory.
• Universality: The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all societies have equivalent status and share equal responsibilities and duties in supporting each other, is worldwide.