17 April marks the birth anniversary of Georges Saint-Paul, the visionary whose ideas laid the foundation for modern civil defence and inspired the creation of what is today the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO).

Georges Saint-Paul, born in France in 1870, was a distinguished military doctor, researcher, and intellectual whose work was deeply influenced by his direct experience of the devastating impact of armed conflicts on civilian populations. These experiences led him to develop a humanitarian vision centered on the protection of civilians in times of crisis.

In 1931, in Paris, he founded the Association of Geneva Zones, introducing the pioneering concept of neutralized areas where civilians — particularly women, children, the elderly, and the vulnerable — could find refuge during armed conflicts. This initiative also emphasized the protection of cultural heritage and historical sites, reflecting an early understanding of principles that would later be incorporated into international humanitarian law.

The idea quickly gained recognition, and by 1935 the Association was officially acknowledged. Its principles contributed to shaping international efforts aimed at humanizing armed conflicts and protecting civilian populations.

Over time, this initiative evolved into a broader international framework. In 1958, the organization was formally established as the International Civil Defence Organization, expanding its scope to include not only wartime protection but also disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and international cooperation in civil defence.

A significant milestone was reached in 1972, when the ICDO acquired intergovernmental status, reinforcing its position within the international system and enabling it to play a greater role in supporting national civil defence structures worldwide.

Today, the ICDO brings together 61 Member States and 15 Observer States, serving as a platform for cooperation, coordination, and capacity building among national civil defence organizations. Its mandate includes facilitating the exchange of expertise, conducting training programs, supporting institutional development, and promoting effective responses to emergencies and disasters.

In an increasingly complex global environment, the ICDO continues to adapt to emerging challenges. The organization actively contributes to strengthening resilience, enhancing operational readiness, and supporting humanitarian efforts across regions.

Since 2025, under renewed leadership, the ICDO has been advancing a process of reform and modernization, aimed at strengthening its institutional capacity, expanding partnerships, and enhancing its effectiveness at the international level.

As we mark the birth anniversary of Georges Saint-Paul, the ICDO reaffirms its commitment to the principles upon which it was founded — the protection of populations, international cooperation, and the continuous strengthening of civil defence systems worldwide.