Laos Celebrates World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day with Blood Donation Event

Vientiane: The Lao National Blood Transfusion Institute and the Lao Red Cross organized a public blood donation event on May 8 at the Lao-ITECC Mall to mark the 162nd anniversary of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, under the theme: 'Support Humanitarian Work.' According to Lao News Agency, this celebration honors the founding of the movement on May 8, 1863, inspired by Swiss businessman Henry Dunant, who was born on May 8, 1828. While traveling in northern Italy, Dunant encountered the aftermath of the Battle of Solferino, a brutal conflict between French and Austrian forces that left over 40,000 soldiers dead or wounded. Moved by the suffering, he took the initiative to provide first aid and coordinate local volunteers to assist the wounded regardless of nationality. His actions laid the foundation for the International Red Cross. Mr. Phonkham Keovilai, Deputy Director of the Fundraising and Humanitarian Relief Department, stated during the ceremony that Dunant's vision remains a beac on of humanitarianism today. May 8 has since been recognized annually as World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. This year's commemoration is held under the slogan: 'We Are Humanitarian.' Organizers emphasized the irreplaceable value of human blood-no factory can produce it, and only human-to-human donation can save lives. Blood donation is portrayed as a noble act of compassion and responsibility. Currently, the national blood supply is insufficient to meet demand. Previously, a significant portion of donated blood came from students; however, stricter health and age requirements have reduced this contribution. Organizers are urging all citizens to consider blood donation, comparing the act to making a powerful, selfless merit that can save lives. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is founded on seven core principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. These values guide its mission across borders and cultures. Today's event broug ht together students, soldiers, police officers, state enterprise employees, private company workers, and the general public. Organizers expect a strong turnout of donors in support of this humanitarian cause.