Avaaz

Description

Avaaz is a global web movement, launched in 2007, that organizes people-powered politics on issues affecting people worldwide. Its name comes from a word meaning voice in several languages across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. It works to close the gap between the world people have and the world most people want, campaigning on issues from corruption and poverty to conflict and climate change.

The Avaaz community campaigns in many languages, supported by a core staff team working across six continents and thousands of volunteers. It takes action through online petitions, funded media campaigns, direct actions, emails and phone calls to decision-makers, and offline protests and events. Members set overall priorities each year and campaign ideas are tested through polls before being taken to the full membership.

Avaaz is funded entirely by its members and does not accept money from governments or corporations, which its staff say keeps it independent and accountable. Campaigners work from more than 30 countries and communicate with members mainly by email. The organization also supports members who want to start and run their own petitions on local, national or international issues.