Geneva Convention countries consider new Red Cross emblem

The 192 countries that have signed the Geneva Convention on the conduct of warfare today met to consider whether to adopt a new Red Cross emblem.

This could pave the way for Israel’s entry into the movement after nearly six decades.

Red Cross partner organisations in Israel and the Palestinian Authority have already signed an agreement of mutual recognition, foreseeing acceptance of the “red crystal” at the Swiss-hosted diplomatic conference, which takes place today and tomorrow in Geneva.

The crystal is a new emblem which the International Red Cross is considering to recognise alongside the red cross and red crescent.

Last week Magen David Adom, or Red Shield of David, recognised the Palestinian Red Crescent as the national society in the Palestinian territories and both societies agreed to respect the other’s jurisdiction, cooperate and abide by Red Cross rules – a major step toward possible acceptance of the crystal emblem.