What was Dunant's central humanitarian idea?
My central idea was the necessity of organized, neutral relief for the wounded and sick in times of war. I observed firsthand the chaotic and inadequate conditions on the battlefield. The core principle is that humanity should transcend the hostilities of nations, and that civilians, through voluntary societies, can and should offer assistance to all combatants in need, irrespective of their side. This requires a commitment to impartiality and neutrality.
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