The international movement of Red Cross and Red Crescent was founded in Geneva, the decisive events were the creation of the ICRC (International Committee of Red Cross) in February 1863 and the signature, in August 1864, of the Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Wounded in Armies in the Field, which signalled the birth of international humanitarian law as well.

Since 1863 the vision of Henry Dunant start to become reality, through the increasingly operational role played by the Committee, through the creation of national Red Cross ad Red Crescent societies. Parallel to the growth of the Red Cross was the birth of modern humanitarian law: internationally-agreed rules, applicable to all conflicts, that were to guarantee assistance for the wounded and sick - and later, to apply to prisoners and civilians.

The Italian Red Cross was born in 15 June 1864 in Milan, 2 months before the signing of 1st Geneva convention, and was the natural developing of Milanese Medical Committee founded by Cesare Castiglioni and others meritorious citizens. Milan become immediately the first promoter of Red Cross principles in Italy.

Today the International Movement of Red Cross and Red Crescent is the world largest humanitarian network, it includes 120 million volunteers in 178 national societies, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the Geneva-based International Committee of the Red Cross.

Our 7 fundamental principles:

HUMANITY

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavours, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect human life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all people.

IMPARTIALITY

It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavours to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

NEUTRALITY

In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

INDEPENDENCE

The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.

VOLUNTARY SERVICE

It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain

UNITY

There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry its humanitarian work throughout its territory.

UNIVERSALITY

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. In which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.