Saba Mirafzal

As part of the in-person segment of the 2024 International Humanitarian Law Youth Action Campaign Summit, the American Red Cross hosted a seminar focusing on the critical importance of intellectual property (IP) law and the protection of the Red Cross emblem. The seminar, presented by Ms. Allison Leader, Vice President and Chief Counsel of the American Red Cross Office of General Counsel, took place on August 8th from 4:00 to 5:00 PM in Washington, D.C., and was attended by International Humanitarian Law youth advocates from across the globe.

The seminar kicked off with an overview of the legal landscape surrounding the Red Cross emblem, emphasizing its dual role under international humanitarian law (IHL) as both a protective and an indicative symbol. The Red Cross emblem, along with its counterparts—the Red Crescent and Red Crystal—is globally recognized for its role in protecting medical personnel, hospitals, and civilians during armed conflicts. However, as Ms. Leader pointed out, the emblem's usage is often misunderstood or misrepresented in commercial and popular media, which can lead to significant legal and ethical challenges.

Ms. Leader shared personal insights into her journey within the American Red Cross, where she transitioned from working as a lawyer for the Associated Press to taking on the role of intellectual property attorney at the Red Cross. Her role, she explained, involves not only protecting the emblem as a trademark but also educating others about its unique status and the legal implications of its misuse.

"One of the most important aspects of my job," Ms. Leader stated, "is ensuring that the Red Cross emblem remains a distinct and respected symbol. Whether it's on a battlefield or in a movie, the emblem should only be used in ways that align with its intended protective function and the values of the Red Cross Movement."

Throughout the session, Ms. Leader highlighted various instances where the Red Cross emblem has been misused in popular culture, such as in movies, video games, and even commercial products.

These examples illustrated the challenges her team faces in maintaining the emblem’s integrity while balancing legal enforcement with the organization's humanitarian mission.

The seminar also touched upon the complex relationship between trademark law and international humanitarian law, particularly within the context of the emblem’s protection in different countries. Ms. Leader explained how the Red Cross must navigate differing legal systems around the world to safeguard the emblem’s meaning and prevent its dilution.

A key takeaway from the seminar was the importance of public awareness and vigilance. Ms. Leader encouraged attendees to report any misuse of the Red Cross emblem they might encounter, whether in commercial products or media representations. She also emphasized the role of the Red Cross community in upholding the emblem’s dignity and ensuring it is only associated with the lifesaving, humanitarian work of the organization.

The event concluded with a question and answer session, where attendees had the opportunity to ask Ms. Leader about specific legal cases, the challenges of enforcing IP laws globally, and the ethical considerations involved in protecting such a significant symbol.

The American Red Cross is committed to educating its employees, volunteers, and the public about the importance of protecting the Red Cross emblem at home and abroad, including through the use of intellectual property law. This seminar is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that the emblem continues to be a trusted symbol of neutrality, impartiality, and humanitarianism.

For more information on the American Red Cross’s intellectual property initiatives or to report a misuse of the emblem, please contact trademarks@redcross.org.

SUMMARY: The American Red Cross recently hosted a seminar on intellectual property law, led by Vice President and Chief Counsel Ms. Allison Leader. The event focused on the protection of the Red Cross emblem, emphasizing its critical role under international humanitarian law. Attendees learned about the emblem's legal significance, the challenges of enforcing its proper use, and the importance of public vigilance in safeguarding its meaning. The seminar highlighted real-world examples of emblem misuse and offered practical advice on reporting violations. The event reinforced the Red Cross's commitment to preserving the emblem as a symbol of humanitarianism and neutrality.