World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day
The theme of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2026, United in Humanity, celebrates the volunteers and staff who stand alongside communities in times of crisis, not as outsiders, but as part of them. In an increasingly complex and divided world, they turn compassion into action, offering hope, dignity and support when it matters most. World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is both a tribute to their unwavering commitment and a moment to remember those who have lost their lives in service of others. It is also a call to uphold and protect humanitarian action, ensuring that neutral, independent and impartial support continues to reach those most in need, wherever they are.
United in humanity, standing together in times of crisis
A psychosocial support team member from the Iranian Red Crescent comforts a woman affected by the hostilities, offering emotional support amid ongoing displacement and loss.
Photo: Iranian Red Crescent Society
Crises may look different from one place to another, but the need for support, solidarity and connection is universal. In these moments, Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers step forward to support those around them.
Across the world, this commitment takes many forms. In Chad, volunteers from the Red Cross of Chad support families forced to flee conflict in Sudan, helping them access basic needs as they rebuild their lives in displacement.
In Cuba, communities recovering from powerful storms regain access to clean water and essential services thanks to the Cuban Red Cross.
In Ukraine, heating points set up by the Ukrainian Red Cross offer warmth and relief to people affected by conflict, as they endure harsh winters and prolonged disruptions.
And in the Philippines, volunteers from the Philippine Red Cross continue to respond to disasters even as they face their own personal losses.
In every context, one thing remains the same: people helping people, standing side by side, and ensuring that no one faces crisis alone. This is what it means to be united in humanity.
History of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day
Portrait of Henry Dunant, founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross
Photo: IFRC
The idea for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day came about after the First World War, when an "annual action that could take hold in the whole world... that would be a major contribution to peace" was discussed at the 14th International Conference of the Red Cross.
8 May was eventually chosen because it is the anniversary of the birth of the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Henry Dunant.
The first 'International Red Cross Day', as it used to be known, was celebrated on 8 May 1948. The official title of the day changed over time and became known as 'World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day' in 1984.
Today, the day is an opportunity every year to celebrate our network of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers, reaffirm our unwavering commitment to a common humanity, and reflect on our Fundamental Principles.