Eighteen countries meet in Geneva and agree to form the International Red Cross.

The International Red Cross refers to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, a global humanitarian network dedicated to providing assistance and protection to people affected by conflict, disaster, and other crises. The movement includes several components, with the main ones being:

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC): Founded in 1863 by Swiss businessman Henri Dunant, the ICRC is an independent organization headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It primarily operates in conflict zones, where it provides medical care, emergency relief, and advocacy for humanitarian law. The ICRC is tasked with upholding the Geneva Conventions, international treaties that protect people in times of war, including prisoners, civilians, and wounded soldiers.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC): Established in 1919, the IFRC coordinates relief efforts and humanitarian aid outside of war zones, primarily responding to natural disasters, health crises, and other emergencies. It supports 192 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies worldwide, organizing large-scale responses to disasters and working on health, migration, and community resilience programs.

National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies: Each country’s national society operates independently, focusing on providing aid and assistance domestically and supporting international efforts when needed. National societies are often involved in disaster response, emergency health services, blood donation programs, and first aid training.