Humanists International Publishes 2023 Annual Report

Humanists International, the global voice of the humanist movement, has released its 2023 Annual Report, highlighting significant strides made in empowering humanist communities and advancing humanist values worldwide. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the organization’s accomplishments and challenges throughout the year.

Key Highlights:

• The organization made substantial progress in 2023, supporting humanist communities and advocating for humanist values.
• The World Humanist Congress fostered international collaboration and discussion on important issues.
• Humanists International actively engaged with the United Nations and other international institutions.
• The organization remains dedicated to building a stronger global humanist movement and empowering its members.

Building a Stronger Humanist Network

President Andrew Copson’s foreword emphasized the organization’s accomplishments in expanding its network and supporting member organizations, particularly in developing countries. Humanists International stimulated a rise in member-driven advocacy efforts at the United Nations, showcasing the growing influence of humanist principles on the global stage.

The report details efforts to establish a thriving global humanist network, protect humanists at risk, amplify humanist voices at international institutions, and ensure a strong and sustainable organizational framework. It also highlights the successful World Humanist Congress in Copenhagen, where delegates discussed and adopted a declaration on “Democracy: a humanist value.”

Supporting Humanists and Advocating for Change

Chief Executive Gary McLelland highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to advancing humanist values, from providing support to those facing persecution for their beliefs to campaigning against discrimination based on religion or belief. He also underscored the importance of building partnerships and collaborations with like-minded organizations.

The annual report elaborates on Humanists International’s dedication to supporting individuals at risk, providing tailored assistance to 88 people facing persecution for their beliefs. It also emphasizes the launch of the 2023 Freedom of Thought Report, a comprehensive assessment of the global state of freedom of thought, conscience, and religion or belief.

Influencing International Institutions

Humanists International’s advocacy efforts at the United Nations remained a priority, with the organization delivering numerous statements at the Human Rights Council in Geneva and collaborating with other NGOs on various initiatives.

The report also showcases the organization’s commitment to empowering its members, providing training and support for advocacy efforts both locally and internationally.

Looking Ahead

The annual report outlines Humanists International’s future plans, focusing on securing funding for vital programs, developing resources for members, and creating a new strategy for protecting humanists at risk. President Andrew Copson expressed confidence in the organization’s ability to contribute to a world where humanism thrives and everyone has the freedom to live according to their values.