More than 200 million people in South Asia suffer fear, oppression and violence because of their caste or ethnicity. They are routinely denied basic human rights including access to education, healthcare, legal protection and decent livelihoods.

Since 1980 Karuna has worked closely with members of India’s Dalit community, oppressed by a caste system that has designated them as 'untouchable'. Now Karuna also assists India’s marginalized tribal (Adivasi) communities, Bangladesh’s repressed minority Juma people, and ethnic Tibetans struggling to preserve their ancient culture.

Karuna strives to help oppressed people to develop the skills, dignity and confidence to transform their lives and take their rightful place in society.