 We live in a world crowded with signs and symbols. If I asked you whether you recognized these symbols, I think most of you would say yes. But what if I asked you what they mean? It's a sign of first aid. It's the sign that help is at hand. Hope. I think it means hope. These symbols, or emblems, can mean many things to many people, so let me explain what they mean to all of us. In one word, protection. The Red Cross, Red Crescent and Red Crystal are symbols of protection that international law gives to the wounded and sick and those caring for them in armed conflict. They tell those fighting that they must not attack anyone or anything that displays them. I'm a military doctor. I'm not part of the fight. I wear a Red Cross so that people can see that I'm just here to help the wounded so that I can do my job. These emblems can also show a connection to the Red Cross and Red Crescent organizations. As a Red Crescent volunteer, I help people during emergencies like an earthquake or in times of war. When people see the emblems, they know we are humanitarian, that we help people purely based on need. The emblems aren't religious symbols. They serve humanity, and it's important that everyone understands their meaning. Because as we said, the emblems are a symbol of protection, a sign that help is at hand and a symbol of hope. To ensure that they are respected.