Oxfam's Purpose

Oxfam works with others to overcome poverty and suffering.

Who are we?

We are an independent organisation, registered as a charity, affiliated to Oxfam International, with partners, volunteers, supporters and staff of many nationalities – part of a global movement to build a just and safer world.

What do we do?

We are a catalyst for overcoming poverty. To achieve the greatest impact, we work on three inter-linking fronts:

Saving lives by responding swiftly to provide aid, support and protection during emergencies.

Developing programmes and solutions that empower people to work their way out of poverty.

Campaigning to achieve lasting change.

Our approach

• All our work is based on the belief that everyone has:
• The right to life and security
• The right to a sustainable livelihood
• The right to basic social services
• The right to be heard
• The right to equity

We work at all levels from global to local, including international governments, global institutions as well as with local communities and individuals, to ensure that everyone’s rights are fulfilled and protected.

We work closely with others to implement the most appropriate, effective solution in any particular situation.

The size of our network, combined with our knowledge, experience, resources and collaborative approach, enable us to have both an immediate impact and lasting change to be realised.

Our beliefs

We believe that:

All human lives are of equal value. Everyone has fundamental rights – these must be recognised and upheld at all times

Poverty makes people more vulnerable to conflict and natural disasters. Much of this suffering is unnecessary and must be relieved

People’s vulnerability to poverty and suffering is increased by unequal power relations based on, for example, gender, race, class, caste and disability; women, who make up the majority of the world’s poor people, are especially disadvantaged.

Unequal power relations must be addressed wherever they occur

In a world rich in resources, poverty is a morally indefensible injustice which must and can be overcome. Poverty, vulnerability and suffering are not pre-ordained events. All too often, poverty is the result of decisions taken, intentionally or unintentionally by those in power. Unjust policies and practices, nationally and internationally must be challenged and removed.

• With the right resources, support, and training, people living in poverty can solve their own problems. We all have a personal responsibility to work together to overcome poverty and suffering.

Our values

Our values are founded on our beliefs and centred around three inter-related themes:

Empowerment: Everyone who is involved with Oxfam – whether by contributing to our work, or those who are living in poverty – feels empowered

• Inclusiveness: We are inclusive – open to everyone, regardless of ethnic background or religion
• Accountability: Our purpose-driven/results-focused approach which holds ourselves – and others – accountable.