The Socialist Concept of Solidarity: the Case of the Red Cross in Yugoslavia during the 1960s and 1970s

Abstract

This research endeavors to dissect how socialist self-management and the distinct attributes of Yugoslav socialism manifested within the program and activities of Yugoslav Red Cross. Within Yugoslavia, the Red Cross operated as a mass organization founded upon the principles of socialist humanism and solidarity. By scrutinizing official documents (such as statutes, programs, and congress resolutions) alongside the magazines published by the Red Cross, this research aims to highlight the significance of socialist humanism, solidarity, direct democracy, and active engagement within the Red Cross. Rather than solely focusing on the ideological impact on the organization's operations, this study emphasizes the distinct ideological framework of the Red Cross. It delves into the enriching theoretical underpinnings of Yugoslavia and self-management, illustrating how these factors facilitated a profound evolution within the organization. The Red Cross envisaged engaged citizens exercising responsible decision-making through direct democracy. This encompassed the embodiment of self-management, socialist humanism, and solidarity principles, aligning their actions with communal and societal orientations. This vision contrasts starkly with the prevalent contemporary discourse within capitalist systems, offering a remarkably different perspective on the Red Cross's place and function.