The World Humanist Congress, held every three years, is the main event in the calendar of the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU), which unites over 100 atheist, skeptic, and humanist organisations globally. It is a three-day programme of plenary sessions, workshops, leadership and campaigning training, and vital global networking to make connections and build the humanist movement.
A congress with a vital theme
The 2014 congress will be held in Oxford, UK, on 8-10 August, 2014. It will be run for the IHEU by the British Humanist Association (BHA). The theme of the 2014 Congress is: Freedom of thought and expression: forging a 21st century enlightenment.
Freedom of thought and expression are two of the most vital human rights, drivers of progress and enlightenment now as in the past. Yet they are two of the rights most under threat in today’s world. We will celebrate freedom of thought and expression, hear how these rights are being threatened, meet some of their inspirational defenders and explore how the humanist movement can contribute to their defence. We will forge new contacts, strengthen our existing networks, and help to grow the global humanist movement, to eventually realise these freedoms in every nation of the world.
- Visit the dedicated website for World Humanist Congress 2014
- Tickets available via the British Humanist Association
Grants available
Both to enrich the exchanges and also to develop contacts and skills in the global movement, it is important that people of a wide range of economic circumstances are able to attend. The BHA and the IHEU will offer grants to help low-funded organisations send well qualified delegates to the congress. Humanist organisations and organisations whose focus is on the promotion of the freedom of thought and freedom of expression are eligible to apply by completing the application form. Grants may cover some or all of: the Congress fee, accommodation, and travel to Oxford.
The grants programme is administered by a Grants Committee whose members have a wide range of international expertise and experience, and who will be working according to carefully defined criteria and processes in making the grant allocations. Please complete the form carefully.