Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue

HD was founded to pursue Henry Dunant’s vision of a world more humane. HD embraces a set of values that foster integrity, professionalism and respect for diversity in all areas of its work. We subscribe to the core humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality and operational independence.

Those values and principles, as well as HD’s operational standards are reflected in its Charter. This Charter, which guides HD’s activities, was adopted in 2013 following an internal review of the organisation’s identity, values and principles.

As a private peacemaking organisation, our strengths and distinguishing traits include:

• The ability to conduct mediation at the leadership level of parties in conflict;
• Political independence and impartiality;
• Rapid, flexible response and the effective management of discreet processes;
• Readiness to support other lead mediators;
• Relationships with high-level networks, particularly in Asia and Africa;
• Creativity and willingness to take risks for peace;
• Capacity to convene.

HD pursues its objectives with a commitment to new approaches, to learning, and to collaboration, working with others across borders, beliefs and professions. Since the organisation began operations in 1999, it has established itself as an institution that is reliable, discreet and astute.

One of HD’s strengths is its ability and commitment to conduct confidential dialogue processes. Under certain conditions, a confidential process can provide an enabling environment for parties to begin addressing differences. It reduces the potential costs of negotiation, especially at an early stage in the process when publicity may jeopardise the process of dialogue or the security of those taking part.