Executive Summary
The year 2025 was marked by profound challenges. Armed conflicts continued to devastate communities, environmental crises intensified, and growing polarization, discrimination, and shrinking financial support placed additional strain on civil society organizations around the world. Yet amid these hardships, we also witnessed extraordinary resilience, compassion, and solidarity. Communities continued to care for one another, demonstrating that generosity transcends borders.
INEB remains deeply grateful to stand alongside our kalyāṇamittas during these difficult times. Together, we have continued to alleviate suffering, strengthen communities, and nurture hope through collective action rooted in compassion, interdependence, and mutual trust.
One of the defining moments of the year was the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar in March 2025. Drawing on long-standing relationships with partners inside and outside Myanmar, INEB responded immediately by supporting locally led relief efforts. This response was made possible through the generosity of organizations including Jungto Society and JTS in South Korea, Secours Populaire Français, Religions for Peace Japan, and thousands of individual donors whose trust enabled assistance to reach affected communities with transparency, integrity, and solidarity.
Despite increasingly limited funding, INEB’s programs continued to make meaningful contributions. The Child Protection and Well-being Program marked a significant milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding among INEB, UNICEF Thailand, Mahidol University, and Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University to strengthen child safeguarding in religious institutions. Our Eco-Temple Network expanded regional collaboration on climate action, while the School of English for Engaged Social Service (SENS) continued to nurture emerging leaders and support teacher training along the Thai-Myanmar border.
The Young Bodhisattva Program continued to inspire youth from around the world to connect Buddhist values with social transformation, while the Sombath Somphone Memorial Fund expanded support for community-led initiatives across the Mekong sub-region. The Buddhist Counseling and Chaplaincy Program also grew steadily, offering training and workshops throughout South and Southeast Asia.
Throughout the year, the INEB Secretariat strengthened collaboration with international networks and expanded its engagement with global platforms, including the Faith to Action Network, the Global Network of Religions for Children, and the International Partnership on Religion and Sustainable Development (PaRD). Meanwhile, our work in peacebuilding, reconciliation, women’s empowerment, support for female religious leaders, and interfaith dialogue continued through the dedication of our partners and volunteers despite significant funding constraints.
Looking back, 2025 was a year of immense challenges, but also one of remarkable courage, partnership, and perseverance. It reaffirmed that lasting social transformation is sustained not by abundant resources alone, but by trust, compassion, and the unwavering commitment of people working together for the welfare and happiness of all.
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