The hummingbird logo of the International Diabetes Federation has its origins in the Dutch Diabetes Association, an organization for people with diabetes founded in 1945.

Known as “the bird of hope”, a hummingbird was chosen by the Dutch Diabetes Association as it symbolised the optimism of people with diabetes as they found ways to manage their condition, overcome its challenges and deal with its potentially devastating complications.

In 1980, the hummingbird became the official symbol of the International Diabetes Federation. The logo has since represented and united millions of people throughout the world with a message of hope in the fight against diabetes.

The logo of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is a registered trademark and its use adheres to strict terms and conditions.

For more information regarding the use of the logo, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The blue circle

The blue circle is the universal symbol for diabetes. It was introduced in 2006 to give diabetes a common identity. The symbol aims to:

• Support all existing efforts to raise awareness about diabetes
• Inspire new activities, bring diabetes to the attention of the general public
• Brand diabetes
• Provide a means to show support for the fight against diabetes

History

The blue circle icon was originally developed for the campaign that resulted in the passage of United Nations Resolution 61/225 "World Diabetes Day."

The campaign for a United Nations Resolution on diabetes was a response to the diabetes pandemic that is set to overwhelm healthcare resources everywhere. The campaign mobilised diabetes stakeholders behind the common cause of securing a United Nations Resolution on diabetes. The United Nations passed Resolution 61/225 ‘World Diabetes Day’ on December 20 2006.

Why a circle?

The circle occurs frequently in nature and has thus been widely employed since the dawn of humankind. The significance is overwhelmingly positive. Across cultures, the circle can symbolize life and health. Most significantly for the campaign, the circle symbolizes unity. Our combined strength is the key element that made this campaign so special. The global diabetes community came together to support a United Nations Resolution on diabetes and needs to remain united to make a difference. As we all know: to do nothing is no longer an option.

Why blue?

The blue border of the circle reflects the colour of the sky and the flag of the United Nations. The United Nations is in itself a symbol of unity amongst nations and is the only organization that can signal to governments everywhere that it is time to fight diabetes and reverse the global trends that will impede economic development and cause so much suffering and premature death.

Promote the symbol

IDF encourages everyone to use the blue circle as a reference to diabetes and the millions of people affected by the disease. We welcome the use of the logo in publications: magazines, video, online information, etc.

The symbol may not be used without prior permission by IDF. To request use of the symbol, please complete our online form.

Before requesting use of the symbol, please read our blue circle usage guidelines.