Finding common ground for the common good: An appeal for innovative collaboration between faith- and non-faith-based organizations

Abstract

Both faith-based organizations (FBOs) and non-faith-based organizations (NFBOs) make significant contributions to healthcare in low- and middle-income countries, particularly for patients with fewer economic resources. The perception that FBO and NFBO are dissimilar may contribute to there being insufficient interactions between them. But in fact, faith and humanitarianism are intimately and historically connected. As a byproduct, FBO and NFBO share both accomplishments and criticisms, including echoes of imperialism and lack of neutrality. A mutual interest approach could cultivate partnerships between FBO and NFBO, allowing them to pursue the common good of a healthier world without risking assimilation, isolation, or inauthenticity.

Keywords

• faith-based organizations
• humanitarianism
• collaboration
• global health