Mission
CPI operates under the belief that civil society is an essential component of the broader equation of materializing democratic and just societies that embrace cultural and religious diversity, where individuals and communities have the means to lead healthy lives and are imbued with the freedom that stems from no longer living on the social and economic margins of society. Founded in 1998 by U.S. doctors and philanthropists, CPI operates in accordance with the four major humanitarian principles: Humanity: Human suffering must be addressed whenever it is found. The purpose of humanitarian action is to protect life and health and ensure respect for human beings. Neutrality: Humanitarian actors must not take sides in hostilities or engage in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature. Impartiality: Humanitarian action must be carried out on the basis of need alone, giving priority to the most urgent cases of distress and making no distinctions on the basis of nationality, race, gender, religious belief, class or political opinions.