Volunteer roles in Edinburgh
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.
Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.
We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.
Our values are at the centre of all our work:
• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.
• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.
• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.
• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.
About the CARAS ESOL Team:
Our ESOL team offer English language classes to adults at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling people to attend college and access other services in the future.
About the Role:
CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our online Zoom classes on Wednesdays:
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ESOL Entry 2+ level: 1:30pm to 2:30pm (plus a 10-minute debrief)
Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.
As a volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistant your role is flexible and varied. It will involve supporting the Adult ESOL Teacher in the delivery of online Zoom classes, as well as providing learners with one-to-one or small-group support.
Volunteer tasks and responsibilities:
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Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes;
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Helping learners build confidence in digital literacy;
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Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;
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Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;
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Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the lessons;
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Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;
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Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;
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Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, online communications and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements:
Essential
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To be 18 years or older;
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An interest in education and English language teaching;
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To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds;
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To be reliable and punctual;
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Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;
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The ability to volunteer on Tuesday mornings during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of three months;
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Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *
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Able to attend compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding prior to start of role
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UK resident; has asylum-seeker or refugee status
*DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.
Desirable
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Knowledge of community languages, such as (including Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali and Spanish).
Through volunteering with us you will:
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Meet new members of your local community;
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Learn about different cultures;
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Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;
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Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;
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Develop your skills and competencies;
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Be able to access relevant training, including ESOL safeguarding training;
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Gain experience in teaching and interpreting.
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Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering.
Registered Charity
6 - 10
We provide firm foundations for new-arrival asylum seekers to build happy and successful lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Location: Shepherd’s Bush, West London
Time Commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month (including quarterly board meetings and annual Away Day)
Type: Voluntary
Start Date: Early 2026
Join a unique West London charity creating lasting change in people’s lives
The Upper Room is seeking a Chair of Trustees (Designate) to join our Board in 2025/26 and, after a year of active trusteeship and shadowing, to step into the role of Chair when our current Chair reaches the end of their tenure in 2027.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate, values-led individual to help shape the next phase of our work, from strategic resilience to community innovation.
About Us
From small beginnings more than 35 years ago The Upper Room has grown into a thriving charity with an annual budget of around £650K.
Food provision has always been at the heart of what we do. UR4Meals serves approximately 40,000 meals a year, operating five days a week.
UR4Driving works with ex-offenders and young people identified as at risk of offending. We help them pass their driving theory test, and then provide free driving lessons. Last year 37 students gained a full driving licence with us. This has a significant impact on their employability and self-esteem, and dramatically reduces re-offending.
UR4Jobs helps people become work-ready, and supports their wellbeing.
We are still based in our original home at St Saviour’s Church near Shepherd’s Bush in west London.
About the Role
As Chair, you’ll lead a committed and skilled Board of Trustees, working closely with our CEO and senior team to guide strategy, ensure good governance and champion our impact.
You’ll also play a key role externally, acting as an ambassador to funders, partners and supporters.
We’re looking for someone who can
- Provide strategic leadership through a period of growth and innovation
- Foster a culture of inclusion and respect, both on the Board and across the organisation - Support and challenge the CEO, acting as a critical friend and sounding board
- Ensure excellent governance, compliance and risk management
- Represent the charity publicly, building relationships and influence
About You
We welcome candidates with prior Board experience as a Trustee, Chair or Non-Executive Director, and a strong commitment to social justice.
We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of disadvantage, as well as those from under-represented backgrounds, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.
We’re interested in candidates with
- A clear understanding of charity governance and the role of a Chair
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Strategic thinking and sound judgement
- A collaborative, values-driven approach
- The time, energy and commitment to make a lasting difference
Additional experience in fundraising, partnerships, organisational development or public sector engagement would be welcome, though not essential.
Time Commitment
- As a Trustee in 2025/ 26 (approx. 1–2 days per month)
- Transition to Chair in 2027, subject to mutual agreement and Board approval
- Quarterly evening Board meetings (in person in London)
- Annual summer Away Day with staff and trustees
- Optional involvement in sub-committees or events depending on interest and availability
- Representing the charity at local events
Why Now
By inviting a prospective Chair to join our Board as a Trustee in 2025/26, we can ensure a smooth, informed transition, with the support and handover of our current Chair, and plenty of time for deep onboarding and relationship-building.
The new Chair will help consolidate our growth, and lead our Board through the next chapter, ensuring our mission continues to serve those who need us most in the years ahead.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest and suitability to the Upper Room.
If you would like to have an informal conversation before applying, feel free to reach out via email to arrange a call.
Because we are planning for the long term we are not placing a deadline on this process. However, we aim to appoint in the first quarter of 2026.
Interviews will be held in two stages, including an in-person meeting with key Board and staff members.
Registered Charity
11 - 20
Making sure nobody, socially or financially excluded in West London goes without help, supporting those in need, enabling those with potential
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Support inclusive spirituality, education, and compassionate leadership
OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation is a registered educational charity, founded in 1996, that promotes inclusive spirituality and serves people of all faiths, and none. We train open-hearted adults to serve their communities as interfaith ministers, celebrants, and spiritual companions, supporting life’s important moments through ceremony, ritual, and compassionate care.
Organisational purpose
To benefit the public by the education of mature adults in:
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the core principles of the world’s religions, faiths, and spiritual traditions;
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principles and methods of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace-making;
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and the practice of non-denominational spiritual and pastoral service in the community.
Our Vision
is a world in which humanity awakens into an inclusive global spirituality that encompasses us all in the field of love and life.
Our Mission
is to work towards evolving consciousness in the world, by facilitating open-hearted people to awaken to inner leadership and their capacity for forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace-making.
We are currently seeking new Trustees to join our Board and help shape the future of our organisation. We're especially interested in individuals with experience in marketing, legal affairs, HR, adult education, fundraising, finance, or IT.
This is a meaningful opportunity to:
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Help guide an organisation where spiritual exploration meets learning, where inclusive communities flourish, and where people are supported to offer spiritual care with courage, compassion, and understanding.
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Contribute your professional skills in a nonprofit trustee role aligned with your values
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Help grow an organisation at the intersection of education, spirituality, and social transformation
What We’re Looking For:
We welcome applications from individuals with experience in any of the following areas:
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Marketing, communications, or branding
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Charity law or legal compliance
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Fundraising, development, or grant-writing
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Finance, accounting, or business planning
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Human Resources or organisational development
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Education or curriculum development
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Interfaith ministry, chaplaincy, or spiritual direction
That said, please don’t be discouraged if you don’t tick every box. If you feel inspired by our values and can uphold our Code of Ethics, we warmly encourage you to apply or get in touch for a conversation!
You do not need to be a OneSpirit minister or graduate, we welcome interest from both alumni and the wider community.
Why Join Us?
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Be part of a values-led, inclusive team committed to compassion and transformation
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Support a charity making a meaningful impact in spiritual education and interfaith work
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Develop new skills in nonprofit governance and strategic leadership
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Connect with a thoughtful, heart-centred network of trustees, staff, and ministers
Commitment to Inclusion:
We believe our strength lies in the richness of our differences. We are wholeheartedly committed to building a Board that reflects the diverse communities we serve, across race, gender, age, sexuality, ability, culture, faith, identity, background, and lived experience.
Whether your path has been traditional or unconventional, whether you’re seasoned in governance or bringing your voice to a boardroom for the first time, you are welcome here.
If you feel called to contribute, we would be honoured to hear from you.
Interested in Joining Us?
At OneSpirit, there are many ways to contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. Whether through leadership, service, or spiritual growth, your presence makes a difference.
If you feel drawn to our mission and want to offer your time, wisdom, and heart to OneSpirit’s future, we’d love to hear from you.
You can learn more about our team, our work, and our organisation on our website.
Curious about the training we offer? Come and train with an organisation committed to spiritual exploration, nurturing inclusive communities of care, and creating spaces where understanding and belonging can flourish. Explore the Cherry Tree Pathway, our two-year ministry and spiritual development training, and begin your journey today. Learn more about our training from our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Help safeguard our future: Join BBS UK as our Treasurer
Bardet-Biedl Syndrome UK (BBS UK) is seeking a new Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and play a key role in ensuring the charity remains financially strong, sustainable, and well governed.
Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare, complex genetic condition that causes blindness, learning disabilities, obesity, and a range of additional health challenges. BBS UK is the only UK charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by BBS.
We provide advocacy services, NHS clinic support, publications, and community events that help people navigate life with BBS. Each year, we support over 700 individuals, working alongside a small team of dedicated part-time staff and committed volunteers.
It’s an exciting time to join our charity. We are looking to strengthen our governance and build on our financial foundations to support future growth and impact.
The role
As Treasurer, you will oversee the financial governance of BBS UK, working closely with the Board of Trustees, Operations Manager, and external accountant.
This is a strategic oversight role, not a hands-on bookkeeping position. Day-to-day financial administration is carried out by staff; the Treasurer provides assurance, guidance, and clarity to support good decision-making.
Key responsibilities include:
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Maintaining a strategic overview of the charity’s financial health
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Presenting clear summaries of financial information at Board meetings
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Advising Trustees on the financial implications of plans and decisions
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Overseeing the annual budget and supporting longer-term financial planning
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Ensuring appropriate financial controls and procedures are in place
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Supporting the preparation of annual accounts and liaison with the Independent Examiner
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Helping ensure appropriate reserves are maintained in line with policy
The Board of Trustees retains collective responsibility for the charity’s finances.
We’re looking for someone with:
Essential:
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Experience in finance, accounting, bookkeeping, or financial oversight
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Confidence interpreting financial information and explaining it clearly to non-financial colleagues
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Understanding of financial controls and good governance
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Ability to think strategically and identify financial risks
Desirable:
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Experience in a charity or not-for-profit setting
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Understanding of restricted and unrestricted funds
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Experience working with budgets or management accounts
We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of BBS or a connection to the BBS community, though this is not essential.
As a BBS UK Trustee, you will have:
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Induction, training, and ongoing support
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Reasonable expenses reimbursed
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Opportunities to develop new skills and contribute at a strategic level
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The chance to make a meaningful difference to a rare disease community
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Opportunities to collaborate with dedicated trustees, staff, and partners
Time commitment
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Attendance at four Board meetings per year (online, approximately 3 hours each)
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Reviewing financial information monthly or quarterly
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Additional input around budget setting and year-end accounts
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Attendance at our annual conference weekend (in person; expenses covered)
If you would like an informal conversation about the role before applying, we would be very happy to arrange a chat with our Chair.
BBS UK is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share our values and want to support our community.
By applying for this role you confirm that you are willing and eligible to act as a trustee of BBS UK, that you understand the charity’s purposes and governing document, and that you are not disqualified from acting as a trustee under charity law, including due to relevant unspent convictions, insolvency restrictions, regulatory removal or disqualification, director disqualified from acting as a trustee under charity law, including due to relevant unspent convictions, insolvency restrictions, regulatory removal or disqualification, director disqualification, or other legal prohibitions.
Registered Charity
6 - 10
We support and empower our community, champion wellbeing, and raise awareness, ensuring understanding, support, and hope for all affected.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".
Job description
Quilombo UK is looking for a Bid Writer (Grant & Funds), who loves to face work challenges; to join their growing team.
The Bid Writer (Grant & Funds) will play a critical role by assisting the manager to prepare the proposal that helps the organization to further develop and establish.
This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; love to 'give back to their community'. The role is for you if you are looking for flexibility and autonomy. Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.
Main Responsibilities
- Apart from writing proposals, you will also be reviewing and editing previously written content wherever necessary.
- Working with other team members to produce bid responses and writings
- Helps in writing funding applications for the varied projects that we run in order to meet our organisational objectives.
- Also helps in presentations and all supporting documentation.
General tasks
- Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.
Essential
- You must be based in the UK
- You will need to have good written skills
- Able to write effective, concise and compelling content
- You will be self-starting and willing to research and look for new funding opportunities that match our aims and objectives;
- Ability to work on tight deadlines
- Well organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
- Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.
- Good time-management skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and excel.
- To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
- Strong team player
- Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.
The volunteering program with Quilombo UK requires a minimum of 16 weeks of commitment. We are looking for someone who can offer 12 hours a week, Monday - Friday (2 times a week).
Please note that this is a volunteering unpaid role.
Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer
Benefits: Work from home
Experience:
- Technical Writing: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: Remote
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Research & Policy Officer (Volunteer)
Purpose: To support research / policy projects in areas of the UK, ensuring strategic alignment, quality assurance, and effective collaboration that drives systemic change for young people across the UK.
Key Responsibilities
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Provide strategic oversight of research / policy projects, ensuring outputs are high-quality and impactful.
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Lead on drafting policy briefs and research reports, setting standards for evidence-based advocacy.
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Coordinate multi-stakeholder collaboration, i.e councils, commissions, and community organisations to deliver change.
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Identify emerging issues and opportunities, help in shaping the research agenda in line with organisational priorities.
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Represent the organisation in external meetings.
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Ensure consistency and coherence across multiple projects running in different localities.
Person Specification
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Background in social policy, law, health, climate, or political science, ideally with professional or postgraduate experience.
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Proven ability to manage complex projects and coordinate across multiple stakeholders.
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Excellent strategic thinking and communication skills, able to influence decision-makers.
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Strong IT and remote collaboration skills.
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Deep commitment to human rights
