Blue circle

The blue circle is the universal symbol for diabetes. Until 2006, there was no global symbol for diabetes. The purpose of the symbol is to give diabetes a common identity. It 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

What is the history of the blue circle?

A global symbol for diabetes

The 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.

Who owns the symbol?

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) holds all rights to the blue circle for diabetes.

Promote the symbol

We encourage 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. It may not be used:

  • To promote or refer to anything other than diabetes
  • As a quality label
  • For merchandising or any other form of commercial aim

While IDF holds all rights to the diabetes symbol, we can provide permission for merchandising carrying the diabetes symbol on a case-by-case basis. You can submit your proposal to Grounds for permission are (amongst others):

  • Type of organisation
  • Form of distribution of the material

Examples of how the blue circle can be been used:

  • On posters
  • On t-shirts
  • Flags
  • Pins

Please direct any questions related to the usage of the blue circle to