World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

Every year, around the world, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement reaches more than 160 million people through its network of around 17 million volunteers and 450,000 staff.

National Red Cross Societies in the EU work to build safer and stronger communities both at home and abroad through a diverse and innovative range of services tailored to local needs. For example, the Spanish Red Cross reached almost 2.8 million people through its social services in 2015, while almost 187,000 people were helped to prepare for crisis situations by the Croatian Red Cross. From assisting the homeless in France to supporting survivors of domestic abuse in Denmark, and providing support at home following hospitalisation in the UK, European Red Cross Societies serve people through the tireless dedication of their volunteers.

“Red Cross volunteers are working in virtually every community, giving their commitment, energy and time,” said Denis Haveaux, director of the Red Cross EU Office.

“World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, 8 May, is an opportunity to recognise the contribution and achievements of the millions of volunteers and staff around the world who are keeping our commitment to humanity every day - by making the last mile effort to ensure that no one is left behind,” said Mr Haveaux.

“In complex contexts with increasing vulnerabilities, our ability to access people in need is constantly changing,” added Mr Haveaux. “But our volunteers and staff are finding creative and innovative ways to adapt solutions to reach people in need and help them prepare for, deal with and recover from these challenges.”

The work of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement – comprised of the International Committee of the Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and 190 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies draws on more than 150 years of humanitarian action.

For further information, please see the site dedicated to World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2017.