The Lutheran World Federation (LWF)
The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is a global communion of Christian churches in the Lutheran tradition. Founded in 1947 in Lund, Sweden, the LWF now has 140 member churches in 79 countries all over the world representing over 70 million Christians.
The LWF acts on behalf of its member churches in areas of common interest such as ecumenical and interfaith relations, theology, humanitarian assistance, international affairs and human rights, communication, and mission and development. It furthers worldwide among the member churches diaconic action, alleviation of human need, promotion of peace and human rights, social and economic justice, care for God’s creation and sharing of resources; Development activities undertaken by member churches are supported through the LWF Department for Mission and Development.
The LWF Department for World Service as the internationally recognized humanitarian and development arm of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) provides humanitarian aid and assists in rehabilitation and development in almost 40 countries. World Service works with marginalized and disadvantaged communities in the areas of greatest vulnerability and endemic need.
World Service co-operates closely with churches and related agencies as an instrument of the ecumenical movement. With programs in Africa, Asia, Latin and Central America, and Europe, World Service has a distinguished record of linking compassionate and professional emergency response with competence in rehabilitation programs and effective long-term development efforts. World Service reaches out to marginalized and vulnerable poor people whose livelihoods are threatened by the effects of natural and human-made disaster, with special regard to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees. Through its office for International Affairs and Human Rights, the LWF supports its member churches and development programs with global advocacy.
Latest from The Lutheran World Federation (LWF)
Human rights key to lasting peace in Colombia
May 02, 2013
Colombia's recent progress in promoting human rights is promising, but the country still has a long way to go in meeting its obligations in this area.
Mozambique rises above devastating flood waters
Mar 14, 2013
In the wake of heavy floods, ACT Mozambique has moved quickly to help meet not only the short-term needs of affected communities, but also to reduce their vulnerabilities to future natural disasters.
As Syrian conflict mounts, refugee numbers likely to exceed UN estimates
Feb 19, 2013
As the bitter battle for Damascus intensifies and its impact increasingly spills across national borders, ACT Alliance expects that even more than 1.1 million Syrian refugees will seek safety in neighbouring countries before June 1 this year – thereby surpassing the latest UN estimates.
Conflict in Mali threatens to deepen humanitarian crisis across Sahel
Jan 28, 2013
The conflict in Mali is creating a new wave of civilian displacement that is straining already scarce resources and deepening the humanitarian crisis in Mali and neighbouring countries.
ACT aims to meet growing needs in Gaza
Jan 24, 2013
ACT Alliance has stepped-up its efforts to address the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza following an Israeli military offensive in November 2012 that left 163 Palestinians dead – including 42 children and 22 women.