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History Of The Emblem
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Since its formation as a humanitarian organisation, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Red Cross Movement have used the distinctive emblem of a red cross on a white background (the reverse of the Swiss flag) as both a protective symbol in conflict zones and an indicative symbol in peace time.
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In 1929 the emblem of the Red Crescent was also afforded this special legal standing under the Geneva Conventions, and The Federation's member National Societies now use one or other of these emblems. The rules on the use of these emblems are defined in international law under the Geneva Conventions of 1949.
The emblems have a protective purpose when they are used by the armed forces medical services of a country, or by National Societies working with them in a conflict situation. |
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Indicative use is when National Societies use the emblem for their other activities in peacetime, in conformity with the Principles of the Movement.
Over time, there has been considerable discussion relating to the emblems. While neither emblem has religious or ethnic significance, in some conflicts the emblems have been interpreted as such, thus compromising their neutral nature and putting lives at risk. Also, some countries have not felt they could use either the red cross or the red crescent emblem for a variety of reasons. |
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In response to these concerns, in 2006, the ICRC agreed to the adoption of an additional emblem of protection. This emblem, the Red Crystal, cannot be perceived as having any religious or ethnic association. Recognition of the Red Crystal is contained in the Third Additional Protocol to the Geneva Conventions. When the Protocol comes into effect in 2007, it is expected that a number of States (currently not using the Red Cross or the Red Crescent) will consider using this emblem.
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The Power Of Humanity
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The Power of Humanity logo was developed by the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to mark the new millennium with a positive message.
Meaning of the logo
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At the top of the logo are the two internationally recognised emblems of the movement. Underneath them the wording RED CROSS RED CRESCENT reinforces the visual message and links the emblems with the global network of Red Cross Red Crescent working to protect and assist the most vulnerable.
Through the center of the logo are the key words of the message for the millennium the power of humanity. |
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The deliberate juxtaposition of power an expression of strength with humanity a suggestion of compassion and sensitivity provides a timely reminder that we must combine both sides of human nature in order to make change for good. |
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Supporting the above message is the simple, stylized but highly graphic presentation of humanity the five figures representing the five continents of the world. Most importantly, with their arms raised in support of humanity, they suggest an optimistic view of the coming century.
The logo was launched for the start of the millennium on 8th May 1999, and appears at the heart of millennium programs, campaigns and activities. |
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The Adoption of an Additional Emblem
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The emblems have a protective purpose when they are used by the armed forces medical services of a country, or by National Societies working with them in a conflict situation.
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The Power of Humanity logo was developed by the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to mark the new millennium with a positive message.
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