Global Charter
Principles and Practices for a Growing Movement
The Global Charter for Belonging is a shared statement of principles and a practical framework for building belonging. It helps organizations and individuals strengthen their work, connect with others and become part of a growing global movement.
The Global Charter at a glance
A right
Every person has the right to belong
A framework
Belonging is rooted in people, place, power, and purpose
A commitment
We strengthen belonging through shared action
Why it matters
Belonging is the foundation of a thriving society.
Today, that foundation is fracturing. From rising social isolation and inequality to declining trust in the systems that affect our lives, many challenges we face are rooted in disconnection from one another, from the places we call home, and from the natural world.
Our shared principles
1. The Right to Belong
Every person, simply by being born, has the right to belong. This right reaffirms the dignity, agency and connection at the heart of our existing human rights and calls on each of us to uphold our shared responsibility to one another and the planet.
2. The Four Dimensions of Belonging
Belonging is rooted in four essential dimensions:
People
Relationships, friendships, care and trust
Place
Neighbourhoods, shared spaces and rootedness
Power
Voice, fairness and influence over decisions
Purpose
Meaning, contribution and agency
3. Belonging Strengthens Society
Societies that foster belonging are more resilient, inclusive, and built on stronger foundations of trust. When we feel valued, secure, and part of our communities, we strengthen those relationships and can collectively solve global challenges.
Our shared practices
Together, we can build belonging by:
Designing for Inclusion
Looking at the spaces, systems, relationships, and decisions we shape – from workspaces and public services to our homes, communities, and digital platforms – through a lens of belonging to ensure they actively prioritize human connection, agency and dignity.
Prioritizing Lived Experience
Ensuring that people and communities who experience exclusion most directly are active partners in designing the solutions meant to support them.
Working Collaboratively
Breaking down silos to work across public institutions, businesses, schools, faith communities, media, and civil society to advance belonging and reflect on what is working and where most is needed.
Accelerating What Works
Actively learning from builders of belonging to identify and scale effective, real-world practices.
Join the movement
Be part of a global community of individuals and organizations committed to building belonging.
By becoming a signatory, you can:
- Join others working to strengthen belonging across communities, workplaces and wider society.
- Connect with people and organizations across sectors and countries to share learning, ideas and experiences.
- Use the Global Charter and Toolkit to support meaningful action within your own community and work.
- Contribute examples, reflections and learning that help shape the impact of the Global Charter and inspire others.
- Help build a shared movement for belonging by acting as an ambassador for the Global Charter within your own networks.
