In Memory of the Passing of Mr. Tadateru Konoe, President Emeritus of the Japanese Red Cross Society

Mr. Tadateru Konoe, President Emeritus of the Japanese Red Cross Society, passed away at the age of 87 at 9:45 p.m. on Saturday, 23 May 2026, at the Japanese Red Cross Medical Center due to a dissecting aortic aneurysm.
Since joining the organisation in 1964, Mr. Konoe devoted himself unwaveringly for more than half a century to the development of Red Cross activities both in Japan and around the world, guided by the principles of humanity and neutrality. Throughout his life, he embodied the ideals of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and his leadership and dedication have provided profound inspiration and guidance to us all.
As we reflect upon his distinguished service and enduring contributions, we express our deepest condolences and heartfelt sorrow.

Eulogy

1 June 2026, Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Tokyo, Japan
Atsushi Seike, President of the Japanese Red Cross Society (JRCS)

At the funeral of Mr. Tadateru Konoe, President Emeritus of the JRCS, I would like to offer my words of farewell with deepest respect. It was only recently, at the Recognition Ceremony of the JRCS held on May 12, when many JRCS staff had the honor of welcoming him in good health and of receiving his kind words in person. For us, his sudden passing brings not only profound sorrow but also a great sense of loss beyond description. We can only begin to imagine the depth of grief felt by his bereaved family and extend our heartfelt sympathy to them.
Throughout his life, Mr. Konoe embodied the ideals of humanity, dedicating himself unwaveringly to the noble mission of serving those who suffer. His life’s work reflected a deep sense of responsibility and duty to serve society, and has continuously provided us with profound inspiration and guidance on the spirit and practice of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Within the Movement, Mr. Konoe consistently demonstrated his leadership grounded in a field-oriented perspective. This was exemplified by his strong advocacy, as President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), for the protection and promotion of volunteers. He also visited numerous humanitarian crises sites around the world that were often overlooked, witnessing conditions firsthand and offering encouragement to those affected. In Japan as well, he went personally to the sites of major disasters, leading relief operations from the forefront while standing close to the affected people. Notably, in the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, he took the lead in mobilizing nationwide relief efforts from the earliest stages, focusing on medical assistance and recovery. These actions remain deeply in the memories of many.
At the same time, he steadfastly upheld the humanitarian ideals of the Red Cross. As IFRC President, he spoke out on the inhumanity of nuclear weapons and tirelessly worked to build international momentum toward their elimination. Furthermore, in situations of armed conflict, he emphasized the importance of upholding the principle of neutrality—symbolized in his words on maintaining the “professional silence of the Red Cross and Red Crescent”—so as not to lose the opportunity to assist those most in need by provoking hostility or expulsion.
At the same time, Mr. Konoe demonstrated outstanding leadership in strengthening Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies that carry forward the Movement. This is exemplified by his commitment to what he often referred to as the Spirit of Togetherness, and by his role as a good listener, carefully attentive to the voices of smaller National Societies. In doing so, he devoted himself to ensuring that no National Society would be left behind, and to maintaining and strengthening the unity of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
The same spirit guided his leadership over the JRCS. Even within limited financial resources, he initiated new programs, expanded fundraising opportunities, reformed disaster response systems, and established the Red Cross Colleges of Nursing, significantly advancing the education of nurses. These reforms have shaped the JRCS as of today and stand as a testament to the need for transformation in organizational structures and the way of working, in order to realize enduring humanitarian ideals under changing social and economic conditions.
In recognition of his distinguished achievements, he was awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, as well as the Henry Dunant Medal—the highest honor bestowed upon members of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. I recall how deeply he cherished receiving the latter, especially as he shared his birthday, May 8, with Henry Dunant himself.
His life was a true embodiment of “noblesse oblige”. With an unwavering belief in leaving no humanitarian vacuum, he stood beside the most vulnerable in the most difficult circumstances, extending help with humility. I should not forget to tell that Madam Yasuko Konoe, his devoted spouse, has been always accompanying and supporting him throughout his journey.
Mr. Konoe was truly a great humanitarian. His passing leaves us with the profound sense that a great star has fallen. His gentle and sincere character, and his fairness in engaging with all people without distinction, earned him the admiration of many both in Japan and beyond. As we remember his immense contributions to the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and his warm humanity, I hereby express our deepest gratitude and bid him our heartfelt farewell.