Henry Dunant – Founder of the Red Cross

Millions of volunteers and members of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies throughout the world celebrated the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8. A Swiss businessman, Henry Dunant who was born on May 8, 1828 is the ‘Father of the Red Cross.’

In June 1859, Henry Dunant travelled to Italy to meet French Emperor Napoleon III with the intention of discussing a business matter. When he arrived in the small town of Solferino on the evening of June 24, he witnessed the Battle of Solferino, an engagement in the Austro-Sardinian War. In a single day, about 40,000 soldiers on both sides died or were left wounded on the field.

Henry Dunant was shocked by the terrible aftermath of the battle, the suffering of the wounded soldiers, and the near-total lack of medical attendance and basic care. He completely abandoned the original intent of his trip and for several days he devoted himself to helping with the treatment and care for the wounded. He succeeded in organizing an overwhelming level of relief assistance by motivating the local population to aid without discrimination.

Back in his home in Geneva, he wrote a book called 'A Memory of Solferino,' penning a vivid description of his experiences in Solferino. He explicitly advocated the formation of national voluntary relief organizations to help nurse wounded soldiers in the case of war. In addition, he called for the development of international treaties to guarantee the neutrality and protection of those wounded on the battlefield as well as medics and field hospitals.

This publication ultimately led to the formation of the International Red Cross (ICRC) and the creation of the Red Cross Movement in 1863, in Geneva, Switzerland to provide care with impartiality to the wounded and sick in times of war.

The Red Cross Movement, active in 186 countries today, carries out its activities based on seven fundamental principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.

In 1901, Henry Dunant was awarded the first Nobel Peace Prize.