At Humanity United, we recognize the interconnectedness and intrinsic dignity of all people. For more than a decade, we have supported and worked closely with a number of dedicated partners to change the systems that enable violent conflict, atrocities, human exploitation, and forced labor; issues that disproportionately affect vulnerable people and are an affront to human dignity.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage communities around the world—taking lives, spreading suffering, and altering global and local systems in profound ways we may not understand for decades—these issues have not receded. Rather, they have been amplified, and in many cases exacerbated by this global health crisis.
Though much about the future is unknown to us, Humanity United’s commitment to this work remains firm. Over the next three years, we are committing $40 million to our two major programmatic portfolios—$18 million to our Peacebuilding portfolio, and $22 million to our portfolio focused on Forced Labor and Human Trafficking.
More than ever, our approach will center on examining and addressing power imbalances within complex systems and supporting the agency and expertise of communities living closest to these persistent problems. We believe this approach is necessary during the pandemic and will become even more critical as the world rebuilds.
“In this moment of suffering and uncertainty, we at Humanity United strive to be in service to those most in need. This includes people and communities impacted by human exploitation and violent conflict, as well as our many partners, allies, and grantees around the world,” said Srik Gopal, Humanity United’s managing partner. “Our programmatic portfolios build on over a decade of experience in these fields and are focused on cultivating peace and freedom for some of the most vulnerable people among us.”
As we have over the years, we will continue to operate in partnership with dedicated individuals, organizations, and networks around the world. Working alongside others amplifies our collective efforts, helps us learn, and ensures we remain responsive to evolving system changes and needs.
At HU, we believe in the power of people to bring about extraordinary change. This belief has shaped and informed our values, which continue to inform and closely guide our work. In the midst of this devastating crisis, we are committed to transforming these systems that inhibit inherent human dignity.
To read our full announcement and learn more about our portfolio strategies and approach, please visit our blog.
