What is the historical origin of the Red Cross emblem?
The Red Cross was adopted in 1864 as a colour inversion of the Swiss flag to honour Henry Dunant and the Swiss Confederation's role in humanitarian neutrality.
Who is legally permitted to use the Red Cross symbol?
Use is strictly restricted to military medical services and authorized national societies. Unauthorized use constitutes a violation of national and international law and may be prosecuted as a war crime if misused to shield combatants.