Taawon (Welfare Association) is a non-profit, civic organization launched in Geneva in 1983 by a group of Palestinian business leaders and intellectuals. Taawon today is one of the largest developmental organizations in Palestine and the diaspora camps in Lebanon. It touches the lives of more than one million Palestinians annually. Since its establishment, Taawon has invested funds reaching nearly US $900 million, dedicated to development and relief programs.
Taawon’s record over the past 40 years reflects a journey full of achievements reinforced by strong partnerships. Taawon’s long and rich experience has enabled it to overcome obstacles and difficult conditions that the country faces as a result of the Israeli occupation and also, has enabled it to find innovative and creative solutions to these challenges, particularly in times of crises – thereby making Taawon’s programs more responsive to needs despite social and economic instability. Taawon maintains a presence in Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Switzerland, and in Great Britain through its sister organization; interventions are implemented to reinforce the steadfastness of Palestinian citizens in Palestine and the refugee camps in Lebanon.
Taawon aims to empower Palestinian individuals and civil society institutions both socially and economically, in addition to strengthening their identity, the values of freedom and democracy as well as all human values. The organization works to preserve the cultural heritage, highlighting its unique position, and unleashing the creative energies of youth, women, and children. Taawon provides equal opportunities for various segments of Palestinian society to unleash all their capabilities with excellence and creativity, even despite the most difficult circumstances.
Taawon works to achieve these goals in partnership with various civil society organizations through purposeful planning and outlining policies that hold high professional standards; this process is guided by the policies that are achieved in its field of expertise, particularly the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other relevant international laws issued by the United Nations Educational and Scientific Organization Relevant Culture (UNESCO) and its Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity.