The Evolution of the World Health Organization Logo: A Brief History
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. It was established in 1948 with a mission to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. The WHO’s logo has undergone several changes over the years, and each iteration has its own unique story to tell. In this blog article, we will take a closer look at the evolution of the WHO logo and its significance.
1948-1950
The WHO’s original logo was designed by a Belgian artist named Léonard C. Ensch. The logo consisted of a blue circle with a snake wrapped around a staff, which is a symbol of the Greek god of medicine, Asclepius. The snake represents healing, while the staff symbolizes medicine. This logo was used from 1948 to 1950.
1950-1966
In 1950, a new logo was introduced. It was designed by an American architect named Charles L. Krumme. The new logo was a blue globe surrounded by an olive branch, a symbol of peace. The globe represented the worldwide efforts of the WHO in promoting health and preventing diseases. This logo was used until 1966 when a new version was introduced.
1966-1980
In 1966, the WHO introduced a new logo designed by a Russian artist named Boris B. Lushniak. The logo featured a blue circle with a red cross in the center. The cross represented medicine and health, while the blue circle symbolized the world. This logo was used until 1980.
1980-1996
In 1980, the WHO unveiled a new logo designed by a German graphic designer named Adolf Bauer. The logo featured a blue circle with a snake wrapped around a staff, similar to the original logo. However, the snake was more stylized and the staff was more prominent. This logo was used until 1996.
1996-Present
In 1996, the WHO introduced the logo that is still in use today. The logo was designed by a French designer named Jacques Chirac. The logo features a blue circle with a stylized red ribbon in the center. The ribbon is shaped like a double helix, the structure of DNA. This represents the WHO’s commitment to researching and preventing diseases. The circle represents the world, and the blue color represents health and well-being.
The evolution of the WHO logo reflects the changing times and the organization’s evolving mission. Each iteration of the logo has its own unique story to tell, and they are all a testament to the WHO’s ongoing effort to promote global health. The WHO logo is now recognized around the world as a symbol of hope and a commitment to public health.
