We work wherever possible to give moral and practical support to significant initiatives to meet today’s global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and humane treatment for refugees, and to promote a culture of respect for human rights.
This work rests on humanist principles of accepting scientific evidence, extending our empathy beyond just those in our immediate reach, and acknowledging responsibility both for each other and our natural world.
There is perhaps no better demonstration of the folly of human conceits than this distant image of our tiny world. To me, it underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another, and to preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we’ve ever known.
The real hallmarks of humanity are curiosity and an amazing ability to cooperate. If we can use science wisely and work together, I believe we can overcome the huge challenges facing us this century.
Policy briefings
Other work on global challenges
Other initiatives we are part of to address global challenges.
International campaign: protect humanists at risk
In many parts of the world, it’s not safe to openly express humanist ideas. In some countries, humanists face the death penalty.
End Blasphemy Laws
Many countries have the death penalty for blasphemy and apostasy, and in many more it is impossible to be openly non-religious.
Humanists International
Bringing together humanist organisations in over 60 countries to address challenges facing as a united global movement.
Our work at the UN
Many countries have the death penalty for blasphemy and apostasy, and in many more it is impossible to be openly non-religious.
Humanist Climate Action
A network of humanist volunteers coordinating action on biodiversity and the climate crisis.
Most of our other campaigns are carried out at a national level in the UK, in the devolved nations, and the crown dependencies, but we are also active internationally, advocating globally for the same freedoms and rights that we promote and defend at home.
We are a member of the global umbrella organisation Humanists International and have our own representation at the United Nations. We also work with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office and UK parliamentarians to support them in advocating for these rights and freedoms too.