(IHEU = International Humanist and Ethical Union) Humanism is a democratic and ethical life stance, which affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give shape and meaning to their own lives.
It stands for the building of a more humane society through an ethics based on human and other natural values in a spirit of reason and free inquiry through human capabilities.
It is not theistic, and does not accept supernatural views of society.
The International Humanist and Ethical Union has nearly one hundred member organisations from over 30 countries, representing nearly five million members. These organisations range from large membership groups to specialist bodies such as publishers, universities and development agencies.
Humanist organisations provide a community for those who find meaning and value in life without looking to a god. But more than this, they work to translate humanist aspirations into practical actions.
Many humanist principles have found expression in human rights conventions. Humanist groups defend and promote these rights - especially the rights to individual self determination and freedom of belief - through education and lobbying campaigns.
Practical activities in the community range from the provision of sheltered housing for the elderly to helping the victims of religious intolerance and persecution. Humanist organisations also provide social and personal support through education, counselling, and community care. Some countries support hundreds of professional moral educators in schools and humanist counsellors in universities, hospitals, prisons, the armed forces and elsewhere.
As well as representing the humanist movement at an international level, IHEU works to support humanist groups and individuals and to develop co-operation between them. A strong international organisation is essential to increase the world-wide impact of humanism and to ensure that the world humanist community benefits fully from the achievements of all its members.
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