About the project

Red Cross VR is an immersive training experience designed to educate participants about International Humanitarian Law through realistic, first-person decision scenarios. Created with the Netherlands Red Cross and Leiden University, this project leverages virtual reality to immerse students, professionals and trainees in high-pressure situations typical of armed conflict.

Rather than relying on abstract theory, users navigate a simulated conflict zone where they must rapidly assess ethically and legally complex situations — decisions that demonstrate the tangible impact of humanitarian law.

The challenge & solution

The Red Cross operates regularly in conflict zones affecting both civilians and combatants. While “rules of war” are recognized, few grasp their practical complexity. Traditional education supplements classroom instruction with role-play exercises like paintball scenarios.

Red Cross VR elevates this approach using 360° drone-captured footage. Users encounter three realistic scenarios inspired by actual events: wounded enemy soldiers, children with weapons, or civilians in crossfire. Participants make time-critical decisions grounded in International Humanitarian Law, sparking post-experience reflection and dialogue.

Why it matters

This educational tool functions as engaging content while serving a profound mission: raising awareness of human dignity protections during conflict and demonstrating how decisions can preserve lives.