At the 2026 World Humanist Congress in Ottawa, Canada, humanists from around the world came together to adopt a powerful new statement: ‘The Ottawa Declaration on Humanism as Resistance’.
The declaration is a call to recognise humanism not simply as a set of values, but as an active approach to life. It argues that in a time of growing authoritarianism, conflict, misinformation and attacks on human rights, imagining a better world is not enough. We must also be prepared to act to help create and defend it.
The declaration warns against the global resurgence of authoritarianism and warmongering, the normalisation of hate and dehumanisation, and growing threats to freedom of thought and expression. It also addresses the need for technological systems to remain accountable to human beings and aligned with dignity, empathy, privacy and democratic oversight.
At its heart, however, the declaration is also a message of hope.
It affirms the power of individual agency, critical thinking and collective action. It calls for compassionate solidarity with those facing oppression or persecution, recognising that resistance can come at a significant personal cost. It argues that no one should have to face that struggle alone.
The declaration also highlights the importance of strong democratic institutions, human rights frameworks and active citizenship. It calls on humanists to engage confidently in public life, challenge misinformation and irrationality, and advocate unapologetically for human rights.
For us at the Humanist Society, the declaration is a timely reminder that humanism is not passive. Our values ask something of us: to think critically, act ethically, stand alongside others and work towards a more just and compassionate world.
As the declaration puts it, “humanists must not only imagine a better future, but help build it”.
You can read the full ‘Ottawa Declaration on Humanism as Resistance’ on the Humanists International website. The declaration was adopted at the World Humanist Congress in Ottawa in August 2026, which brought together more than 500 delegates from 41 countries under the theme ‘Humanism as Resistance’.