WORLD Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is an annual celebration of the principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. It is observed on 8 May every year, marking the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, who was the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the first recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded in 1901.
World Red Cross Day is a global observance that celebrates the humanitarian efforts of the Red Cross and Red Crescent movements. It honours the tireless work of volunteers and staff who provide vital assistance to those in need, especially during emergencies and natural disasters. The day also aims to raise awareness of the movement’s core principles: neutrality, impartiality, and humanity.
Such a significant day is celebrated in unity, highlighting the spirit of service that transcends borders. Emblems of these societies are globally recognized symbols of protection and hope. In 191 countries, national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, established by relevant governments, are actively providing humanitarian aid through dedicated volunteers. Similarly, in Myanmar, the Myanmar Red Cross Society continues to deliver humanitarian assistance in accordance with Red Cross principles, reaching people in need across the nation.
A total of 97 million members worldwide have joined the organization established to protect human life and health. It is founded on the principle of promoting respect for all human beings and protecting them from suffering and distress, without discrimination based on skin colour, age, gender, race, religion, or social status.
Red Cross members carry out their duties not for personal gain, but out of a deep desire to heal and ease the suffering of patients through their care. They are unwavering in their commitment, even tending to the wounded on battlefields. In general, they take pride in their success in helping patients recover through healthcare services and in extending support to those affected by various natural disasters.
Those Red Cross members participated in search and rescue operations in different natural disasters, especially severe storms in Myanmar. This year, Red Cross members had a remarkable opportunity to demonstrate their heroic efforts in rescuing people from the damaged and collapsed buildings caused by the Mandalay earthquake. Their noble actions will be remembered as a significant part of national history. The sacrifices they made, including their lives, blood, and sweat, are worthy of recognition for helping the quake victims survive and rebuild their lives.
