John: Since the Geneva Conventions of 1949, countries around the world have adopted principles of humanity and impartiality – these principles have since been a formal and overarching component of international humanitarian law.
At Save the Children, we invest in understanding and promoting these humanitarian principles, with the goal of increased protection of children’s rights.
That’s why, today, as we remember one of history’s great humanitarians, Martin Luther King Jr., Save the Children is reaffirming our commitment to these four core humanitarian principles:
Humanity: Our action is driven by the humanitarian need to save lives and protect children. We work to ensure children and their families’ safety, alleviate suffering, restore dignity and aid recovery.
Impartiality: Our action is based on needs alone without any discrimination on the basis of nationality, race, gender, religious belief, class or political opinions.
Independence: Our action aims to be operationally independent from political, economic, military or other objectives, while partnering with grassroots organizations and community leaders.
Neutrality: Our action aims to be operationally neutral and not take sides in hostilities of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature. We don't choose sides, we choose children.
Save the Children works to ensure children survive, are protected, educated and can fulfill their potential and exercise their right to participate in decisions that affect their lives. The fight to secure children’s rights is the foundation of all our work, and this foundation is guided by the above principles.
Thank you so much for your steadfast support in this mission – and for your unwavering commitment to helping create lasting change for children.
