1965年在維也納召開的第20屆紅十字國際會議通過，復於1986年在日內瓦召開的第25屆紅十字與紅新月國際會議通過修正，並載明於國際紅十字與紅新月運動章程，擬定國際紅十字運動的基本原則如下：
人道（ Humanity）
國際紅十字運動係由於意欲為戰場傷患提供無差別待遇之協助而萌生，應依其國際及本國之功能，致力於預防及減輕出現在任何地方之人類苦痛。其目的在於保護生命與健康；確保對人類的尊重，並促進世人相互之瞭解、友誼、合作與持久的和平。
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavours, in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace amongst all peoples.
公正（Impartiality）
它不因國籍、種族、宗教信仰、階級或政治意見而有所歧視。它致力於解除個人之痛苦時，全係根據他們的需要行事，並優先考慮特別急迫的苦難個案。
It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.
中立（Neutrality）
為求持續獲得各方的信任，紅十字運動於任何敵對情形中，不得採取支持其中一方之立場，亦不得在任何時候涉入具有政治、種族、宗教或意識型態本質之爭端。
In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.
獨立(Independence)
國際紅十字運動有其獨立性。各國家紅十字會雖為其政府人道服務方面之輔佐機構，且需遵守各該國之法律，惟仍應永遠保有自主性，俾得在任何時候均能遵循紅十字運動之原則行事。
The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.
志願服務（Voluntary Service）
國際紅十字運動乃志願救援之運動，並不企求任何利益。
It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.
統一(Unity)
每一國家只能有一個紅十字會。它必須對全國公開，並在全部領土內推行人道工作。
There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.
普遍（Universality）
國際紅十字運動遍及全世界，各紅十字會地位相等，也共負彼此互助之相同責任與義務。
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.
資料來源：中華民國紅十字會總會
