World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day
Humanity in action — the Red Cross reaches the unreachable.
About
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8 celebrates one of the oldest and largest humanitarian organisations in history. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement — comprising the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation (IFRC), and 191 National Societies — operates in virtually every country, providing disaster relief, conflict assistance, first aid training, and blood services. The movement is guided by seven principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. On May 8 — the birthday of Red Cross founder Henry Dunant — National Societies organise blood drives, first aid demonstrations, and volunteer appreciation events. The day highlights both the ongoing crises demanding the movement's presence and the millions of volunteers who make its work possible. The Red Cross is a rare organisation trusted by all sides in conflict — that neutrality is its most precious and hard-won asset.
History
Henry Dunant was born on May 8, 1828. After witnessing the horrific aftermath of the Battle of Solferino in 1859, he proposed the creation of voluntary relief societies to care for the wounded regardless of nationality. His book 'A Memory of Solferino' (1862) led to the founding of the International Committee of the Red Cross in 1863 and the first Geneva Convention in 1864. Dunant was awarded the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The American Red Cross is one of the largest non-profit organisations in the US, known for disaster relief, blood collection, and military family support. World Red Cross Day prompts major blood drive campaigns and volunteer recognition events across the country.
KR South Korea
The Korean Red Cross (대한적십자사) plays a crucial role in blood collection and disaster response, and has historically been involved in humanitarian efforts related to North Korea. World Red Cross Day is marked with donation campaigns and volunteer training programmes.
JP Japan
The Japanese Red Cross Society (日本赤十字社) is one of the largest in the world, renowned for its disaster response following earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. May 8 includes blood donation campaigns and volunteer training that draw large public participation.
How to Participate
- 01Donate blood at a Red Cross blood drive in your area
- 02Sign up for a Red Cross first aid or CPR training course
- 03Donate to your National Red Cross or Red Crescent Society
- 04Learn about the Geneva Conventions and the protections they provide in armed conflict
Frequently asked questions
When is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day?+
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is observed annually on May 8. The date is fixed each year — May 8 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day?+
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8 celebrates one of the oldest and largest humanitarian organisations in history. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement — comprising the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation (IFRC), and 191 National …
Is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day a public holiday?+
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day?+
Donate blood at a Red Cross blood drive in your area Sign up for a Red Cross first aid or CPR training course Donate to your National Red Cross or Red Crescent Society These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day?+
Global — 191 National Societies worldwide.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day.
US United States
United Kingdom
Australia
Canada
KR South Korea
JP Japan