A Better Solution?
Problem solved? Controversy concluded? One would think so, but there are those from the Jewish community, both in Israel and abroad, whose opinions are that this was merely a cop- out on Israel's part and just another instance of discrimination against Jews (Eldad). And the decision to adopt the symbol was not a unanimous vote, as is normal for Geneva Convention Protocols. Syria had a very serious problem with letting Israel into the organization and was strongly against it, although Syria's votes weren't enough to keep it from passing (Benari and Kempinski).
In My Humble Opinion
If it were up to me, I think I'd do away with all the old symbols and choose one new symbol that couldn't possibly be related to any religion or country (like maybe a peace sign) or maybe the new red crystal, which has no affiliation.
I can't help wondering what the original ICRC members would think of all this strife. They believed the symbol had "to be simple, identifiable from a distance, known to everyone and identical for friend and foe alike."
If one of the fundamental principles of the Red Cross movement is to achieve universality and neutrality through the use of one recognizable emblem, it seems to me that somewhere along the line, we've lost sight of the purpose/goal of nonadherence to any state, country, or religion.
I can't help wondering what the original ICRC members would think of all this strife. They believed the symbol had "to be simple, identifiable from a distance, known to everyone and identical for friend and foe alike."
If one of the fundamental principles of the Red Cross movement is to achieve universality and neutrality through the use of one recognizable emblem, it seems to me that somewhere along the line, we've lost sight of the purpose/goal of nonadherence to any state, country, or religion.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Do you have ideas on how the ICRC could adopt one emblem recognized by every country worldwide, without controversy?
Adoption of the Red Crystal emblem was a compromise solution in efforts to have one recognizable, worldwide emblem. Its effectiveness is questionable and adoption has not been complete in many countries.
Do you think the leaders of the ICRC or IFRC in your country could do more to make this a truly worldwide movement for the good of humanity?
Do you think the leaders of the ICRC or IFRC in your country could do more to make this a truly worldwide movement for the good of humanity?