Header photo: International Agency for Prisoners of War, Rath Museum - ICRC
In the middle of the 19th century, the Red Cross and the Geneva Conventions were founded in the small city-state which had just joined Switzerland. Since then Geneva has been seen as the historic home of modern day humanitarian action and the capital of international humanitarian law.
But why here, in this time in history and with such success ?
Enjoy exploring the 19th century streets of the Old Town, meeting fascinating characters and following the plot of this extraordinary story. It all starts with a handful of Geneva citizens, who found themselves at the he right place and time in history.
Their initiatives and determination led to the creation of the world’s largest humanitarian mouvement and lay the principles and rules that have not ceased to adapt to emerging crisis. This story is what set Geneva on the track to its international vocation.
This visit is regularly requested by the various components of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and humanitarian organizations.
Former ICRC delegate, Catherine is the author of The Humanitarian Trail in Geneva Available here
From the bust of Henry Dunant at Place de Neuve to the City Hall in the Old Town.
Approximately 2 hours
CHF 200 for the tour
As from 10 years old and physically accessible with some uphill and paved streets in the Old Town
Congratulations to Catherine for her flexibility and ability to adapt to the different audiences that support the ICRC. In addition to the more traditional tours, Catherine is always willing to incorporate new ideas or locations, such as a visit to the newly renovated Alabama Room.
Catherine knows Geneva, the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement inside out, and has an outstanding personality. (original comment in French)
We had an amazing tour with Catherine who combined her knowledge of the Red Cross with snippets of information about women who had had an impact on the story of the Red Cross. We had organized this tour for our colleague who was retiring. It made for an amazing and memorable event. We loved the stories and the history came alive for us, thanks to Catherine’s passion. Many of us have lived in the area for years and yet we learned so many new facts — great experience and lots of fun.
Catherine showed us the Red Cross tour around the old town. We were a group and Red Cross workers from all over the world and Catherine reminded us why we joined the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement to start with. Her energy, passion, engagement and love for the topic came across strongly and she completely captivated us. This was the best tour that any of us had experienced. Mille mercis Chatherine!
Header photo: International Agency for Prisoners of War, Rath Museum - ICRC