The History and Evolution of Save the Children
For over a century, Save the Children has stood as a global force in the fight to protect children from hardship, disease, and conflict. What began as a localized response to the aftermath of World War I has transformed into a massive international non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to preserving child life wherever it is threatened by economic distress.
Key Facts
- Founded: 15 April 1919
- Founders: Eglantyne Jebb and Dorothy Buxton
- Headquarters: London, England
- Scope: Worldwide operations
- Core Mission: An international effort to preserve child life threatened by economic hardship and distress.
Founding and Early Innovations
The roots of the organization lie in the Fight the Famine Council, which was established in early 1919 to pressure the British government to end blockades following World War I. On 15 April 1919, founders Eglantyne Jebb and Dorothy Buxton separated from the council to establish the "Save the Children Fund."
The organization quickly expanded, opening its first branch in Fife, Scotland, later that year. By November 1919, a Swedish counterpart, Rädda Barnen, was founded. These early efforts culminated in the creation of the International Save the Children Union in Geneva on 6 January 1920. To build support, Jebb pioneered modern fundraising techniques, including the use of full-page newspaper advertisements and the introduction of individual child sponsorship in 1920.
The Russian Famine Response
A pivotal moment in the organization's history occurred during the Russian famine of 1921. Realizing that child rights required permanent protection, the mission shifted toward a long-term international commitment. Despite criticism from the British press, Save the Children successfully persuaded Soviet authorities to allow a ground presence.
Through press campaigns and feeding centers, the organization provided over 157 million rations, saving nearly 300,000 children. This massive relief effort earned the charity significant international acclaim and allowed its Russian program to conclude in 1923.
Global Expansion and Modern Challenges
Following the Second World War, the organization's work expanded to meet new global crises, including the Korean War and the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. As the British empire declined, Save the Children increased its presence across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Operational Difficulties in Pakistan
In 2011, the organization faced significant setbacks in Pakistan following revelations that a CIA-linked vaccination program had been used as cover during intelligence operations. This entanglement led to a breakdown in trust, with the Pakistani government eventually ordering foreign staff to leave and closing the Islamabad office in 2015. These events contributed to long-term skepticism regarding public health campaigns in the region.
Security and Workplace Accountability
Operating in conflict zones has presented severe risks to staff and operations. In 2018, a militant attack on an office in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, resulted in six deaths. More recently, the 2023 death of Hisham al-Hakimi, a safety and security director, while in Houthi custody in Yemen, brought intense scrutiny to the organization's regional management and the safety of its personnel.
Internally, the organization has worked to address serious cultural issues. A 2020 Charity Commission investigation identified weaknesses in workplace culture following allegations of misconduct and harassment between 2012 and 2015. In response, Save the Children has strengthened its reporting and whistle-blowing policies to allow for anonymous complaints.
Organizational Identity and Changes
In 2022, Save the Children announced a change to its visual identity. The organization retired the Gill Sans typeface from its logo due to the controversial history of its creator, Eric Gill. The decision followed internal discussions regarding the artist's personal history and the organization's commitment to its values.
Summary of Organization Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | International NGO |
| Legal Status | Registered company limited by guarantee |
| Registration No. | England & Wales 213890 SC039570 |
| EIN | 06-0726487 |
| Website | www.savethechildren.org |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Save the Children?
The organization was founded by Eglantyne Jebb and Dorothy Buxton in 1919.
What was the original purpose of the organization?
It originated from the Fight the Famine Council, which aimed to pressure the British government to end blockades to help malnourished children after World War I.
Why did the organization change its logo font in 2022?
The organization changed its typeface from Gill Sans because of the controversial personal history of the font's creator, Eric Gill.
How did the Russian famine affect the charity's mission?
The famine led the founders to realize that child protection must be a permanent, international effort rather than a temporary response to specific crises.
What is the current mission of Save the Children?
The mission is an international effort to preserve child life wherever it is menaced by conditions of economic hardship and distress.