URGENT: World Humanitarian Response in Gaza. Act For Humanity Now
Humanitarians Without Borders
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ActForHumanity

Since its founding in 1989, the World Humanity Commission has evolved from a humanitarian vision into a leading international organization. Our history is marked by decisive moments, overcome challenges, and transformed lives across the world.

20th Century: The Founding Years
1989

Foundation in Geneva

The World Humanity Commission is officially founded on September 15, 1989 by a group of 12 visionary humanitarians in Geneva, Switzerland. The founding charter is signed by representatives of 25 nations.

Founding Ceremony 1989
1991

First Mission in Somalia

Launch of the first international humanitarian mission in response to the food crisis in Somalia. This mission established the foundations of WHC's emergency operations.

Somalia Mission 1991
1994

Intervention in Rwanda

WHC deploys a major mission during the Rwandan genocide, providing crucial humanitarian assistance and establishing community reconciliation programs.

1999

Establishment of the Humanity Embassy

Opening of the permanent headquarters "Humanity Embassy" in Austin, Texas, marking the institutional growth of the organization.

Embassy Opening
21st Century: Expansion and Impact
2001

UN Recognition

WHC obtains Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), strengthening its international legitimacy.

2004

Indian Ocean Tsunami Response

WHC's largest humanitarian operation to date, reaching 8 countries and mobilizing over 500 international volunteers.

Tsunami Response 2004
2010

Launch of ActForHumanity

Introduction of the flagship program "ActForHumanity", uniting humanitarian efforts through a global platform of compassion in action.

2015

Institution of Humanity Awards

Creation of the Annual Humanity Awards to recognize exceptional contributions to the global humanitarian cause.

2020

COVID-19 Pandemic Response

WHC coordinates a comprehensive humanitarian response in 120 countries, providing medical equipment, psychosocial support, and food assistance.

COVID-19 Response
2023

35th Anniversary

Celebration of 35 years of humanitarian service, with over 2 million lives impacted and presence in 120 countries.

The Founding Moment

On September 15, 1989, in the Assembly Hall of the Palace of Nations in Geneva, 12 visionaries gathered with a shared conviction: every human being deserves to live in dignity and security.

"We are not just creating an organization; we are launching a global movement to restore human dignity where it has been forgotten."

These words of Dr. Jean-Luc Martin, WHC's first president, still resonate today as we continue our historic mission.

35+
Years of Service
120
Countries Reached
5,000+
Humanitarian Projects
2M+
Lives Impacted

Leadership Evolution

1989-1999
Dr. Jean-Luc Martin
Visionary Founder
1999-2009
Amb. Sarah Chen
Global Expansion
2009-2019
Dr. Kwame Nkrumah
Humanitarian Innovation
2019-Present
Dr. Elena Rodriguez
Digital Transformations

Historical Archives

Archive 1992
1992

First Annual Report

The inaugural report detailing the first missions and organizational vision.

Archive 2005
2005

Humanitarian Charter

Historic document establishing the principles of WHC's humanitarian interventions.

Archive 2015
2015

Agenda 2030

Alignment of WHC with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Our History in Video

35 Years of Compassion in Action
WHC Historical Documentary

The Continuing Legacy

From 12 visionaries in 1989 to a global organization touching millions of lives today, our history is one of enduring compassion in the face of adversity. Each decade has brought new challenges and new opportunities to serve humanity.

Discover Our Full Biography