Press Briefing on the Topic “Peculiarities of the Emblem’s Use and Protection from Misuse in Ukraine”

“Unfortunately, cases of misuse of the Red Cross emblem are widespread in Ukraine—on private vehicles, facilities, goods, company logos, and so on. This undermines its protective function, especially during times of war,” said Mykola Polishchuk, President of the Ukrainian Red Cross, during a press briefing on the topic “Peculiarities of the Emblem’s Use and Protection from Misuse in Ukraine.

The Red Cross emblem is not just a distinctive sign but also the most recognised symbol of protection worldwide. Its history began in 1864, when a diplomatic conference in Geneva adopted the Convention that established the Red Cross as a protective emblem. Since then, it has been used as a symbol of protection for military clergy and medical personnel of the armed forces during wartime and as a distinctive sign of affiliation with the International Movement in peacetime.

Protection of the Red Cross Emblem in Ukraine

In addition to the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, the use of the emblem is governed by the Law of Ukraine “On the Symbols of the Red Cross, Red Crescent, and Red Crystal in Ukraine.” According to the current legislation, it has two functions:

• Protection: In times of war or conflict, this includes medical units of the armed forces, as well as transport and facilities.
• Identification: In peacetime, to indicate affiliation with the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

What does the Ukrainian Red Cross do to protect the Emblem?

• Conducts ongoing educational and awareness-raising activities among citizens and organisations.
• Developed a collection of resources on the rules for the use and protection of the emblem (available on the official website).
• Іnitiated an international campaign to protect the Red Cross emblem on social media, involving 13 countries.
• Cooperates with law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to bring offenders to justice.

What can be done?

Have you noticed any cases of misuse of the Red Cross symbols? Report them Have you noticed any cases of misuse of the Red Cross symbols? Report them here.