The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement was founded by Henry Dunant, a Swiss businessman and social activist. The organization originated from his experiences during the Battle of Solferino in 1859, which took place in northern Italy during the Second Italian War of Independence.
During the battle, Dunant witnessed the suffering and neglect of wounded soldiers on the battlefield. Appalled by the lack of medical care and the inadequate treatment of the wounded, he organized local civilians to provide assistance to both Austrian and French soldiers, regardless of their nationality.
In 1862, Henry Dunant published a book titled "A Memory of Solferino," where he proposed the establishment of voluntary relief societies to care for the wounded during times of war. He also suggested the creation of an international agreement to protect medical personnel and facilities.
The pivotal moment for the formation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) came on 09 February 1863 when Dunant, along with Gustave Moynier, a Geneva lawyer, and three other individuals, founded the Committee. The Committee's primary purpose was to provide assistance to the sick and wounded in armed forces and to promote humanitarian principles during armed conflicts.
The first Geneva Convention, which laid the foundation for the protection of wounded soldiers and medical personnel during times of war, was adopted in 1864. The red cross on a white background, chosen as a symbol of neutrality and protection, was also introduced during this time.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement has since expanded and evolved, comprising various components, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies worldwide. The movement is guided by the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.
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