Emblems of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement

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International Committee of the Red Cross emblem

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== Emblems of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement ==

The Emblems of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are symbols used to identify and protect medical personnel, buildings, and equipment during armed conflicts and other emergencies. These emblems are recognized under international humanitarian law and are intended to signify neutrality and protection.

History

The first emblem, the Red Cross, was adopted in 1864 during the First Geneva Convention. It was chosen as a tribute to Switzerland, with its red cross on a white background being the reverse of the Swiss flag. The Red Crescent was later adopted in 1876 by the Ottoman Empire during the Russo-Turkish War as an alternative to the Red Cross, due to cultural and religious sensitivities.

Emblems

There are currently three recognized emblems:

• The Red Cross: A red cross on a white background.
• The Red Crescent: A red crescent on a white background.
• The Red Crystal: A red diamond on a white background, adopted in 2005 to provide a neutral emblem free of religious or cultural connotations.

Legal Status

The use of these emblems is regulated by the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols. Misuse of the emblems is prohibited and considered a serious violation of international humanitarian law. The emblems are intended to protect medical personnel, units, and transports, as well as to mark the activities of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

Protection and Misuse

The emblems are protected under international law, and their misuse can lead to confusion and loss of protection for medical personnel and facilities. Unauthorized use of the emblems is a punishable offense under the laws of many countries.

Related Pages

• International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
• Geneva Conventions
• International humanitarian law
• Red Cross
• Red Crescent
• Red Crystal