World Red Cross Day, also known as World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day which is observed every year on May 8.
The day commemorates the birthday of Swiss businessman Henry Dunant, who had generated the Red Cross Committee of the International (ICRI) in 1863 in Switzerland, Geneva. He was born in May 8, 1828 and was also the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
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The day also honours all the volunteers who have made an unparalleled contribution to people in duress or need.
The 2019 theme chosen by them is, ‘#Love’ and aims to broaden the public’s understanding of the society by highlighting the diversity and universality of its work and approach.
Red Cross includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, which has societies in 186 member countries.
There are currently 189 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world with more than 97 million staff and volunteers.
The organisation took to its website and wrote, “On World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day and throughout 2019, we will celebrate the strength and reach of our global network, and the contribution of our staff and 11.7 million active volunteers through the theme #Love.”
The day is celebrated annually to reduce the suffering of people and enabling them to lead a dignified life. It is celebrated by Red Cross Organisations across the world by helping people with independence, humanity, impartiality, universality, unity and neutrality – the fundamental principles of the organisation.