A global symbol for diabetes

The campaign to secure a United Nations Resolution on diabetes was led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). It was and continues to be represented by a simple icon that can be easily adapted and widely adopted. The icon stands for unity in diabetes and symbolizes support for the United Nations Resolution on diabetes.

The concept

From the outset, IDF looked for simplicity in order to facilitate widespread reproduction and use of the symbol by anyone who wishes to support the campaign: Something so simple that a child could draw it with a crayon. The icon can be replicated at low cost and integrated readily into any diabetes campaign.

The choice of shape

Circles occur frequently in nature and have thus been used symbolically since the dawn of civilization. The circle is the sun, the moon, and the stars that guide us; it is the first ripple in the pond. The significance of the circle is overwhelmingly positive. Across cultures, the circle symbolizes life, mother earth and health. Most significantly for the campaign, the circle signifies unity. The global diabetes community came together to support the United Nations Resolution on diabetes. Our combined strength was the key element that made this campaign so special.

The choice of colour

The blue border of the circle reflects the colour of the sky under which we all stand and is the same colour as the flag of the United Nations. Indeed, the organization is itself a symbol of unity amongst nations. It is the only body that could signal to governments everywhere that it was time to reverse the global diabetes epidemic that threatens economic advancement and causes so much suffering.

The slogan

IDF selected the wording ‘Unite for Diabetes’ that accompanies the blue circle with great care. The goal was to bring together all affected by diabetes to support each other and advocate for change. The word ‘against’ was rejected as it is negative, confrontational and open to misinterpretation. It was felt that the word ‘for’, like the circle itself, has positive connotations of collaboration towards a shared objective. IDF invites everyone to wear the symbol and to support and promote the UN Resolution on diabetes.

Using the logo

Please visit our campaign material section for the logo in a number of different formats.