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Half a century of Red Cross principles in action

Fifty years ago today, the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement adopted seven principles that have shaped humanitarian action ever since.

Water, food, hygiene items and health care for people in crisis - that's humanity in action. Photo: IFRC/John Engedal Nissen

Our Fundamental Principles, adopted at the International Conference of the Red Cross in 1965, have helped define the neutral and impartial nature of humanitarian work, informed international humanitarian law and inspired millions around the world.

Check out our principles in action and why they matter as much today as they did 50 years ago.

Learn more about our principles and our emblems.

Get involved

If you share our principles, why not become a Red Cross Member?

Volunteer with Red Cross in your community  

Check out our podcasts: How Aid Works and The Laws of War