執行長的話 WORDS FROM OUR CEO

報告書付梓前夕,四月三日七點五十八分臺灣花蓮發生芮氏規模7.2地震,約二十分鐘後我們即於精舍戶外啟動「0403花蓮地震災害應變中心」,儘管自身建物受損、物品散落,但基金會同仁仍立刻投入賑災任務,不論是彙集情資、盤點物資、展開慰問、準備應急金、設立收容中心等各司其職;在餘震頻繁之際,慈濟志工亦快速換上藍天白雲制服,自發性地走入社區、收容中心、靜思堂自動補位各項人道救援之行動任務;醫療體系同步啟動應變機制;教育志業老師帶領學生,實地上了一堂見苦知福的社會公民課;人文志業則為時代作見證,記錄著大地的撼動與人們溫暖互助;靜思精舍法師們在第一時間就開始準備熱食餐盒,並一同走入避難收容中心,傾聽並安撫鄉親的心靈,發揮安定人心的力量;證嚴上人掛心災況,聆聽匯報與指示應變機制,掛念之餘,更親自走入災區關懷,向現場的警消與救援人員、慈濟志工與其他NGO團體表達感恩與關懷之意。
On April 3, just as this report was about to go to press, a powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.2 struck Hualien City, Taiwan. Within 20 minutes, Tzu Chi Foundation swiftly activated its 0403 Hualien Earthquake Disaster Response Center outdoors at Jing Si Hall. Despite facing damage to their buildings and scattered belongings, Tzu Chi staff immediately sprang into action, each playing a crucial role in coordinating information, assessing supplies, extending condolences, preparing emergency funds, and setting up shelters. As aftershocks continued to rattle the region, Tzu Chi volunteers, clad in their signature blue-and-white uniforms, proactively deployed into communities, shelters, and Jing Si Halls, seamlessly filling in gaps in various humanitarian relief efforts. Meanwhile, Tzu Chi’s medical system activated its emergency response mechanisms, ensuring those affected received medical attention. After the disaster, teachers from Tzu Chi’s educational institutions led their students in a hands-on social studies lesson, fostering empathy and gratitude amidst the devastation. Tzu Chi’s cultural professionals served as witnesses to the times, meticulously documenting the earth’s tremors and the heartwarming acts of mutual aid among people. Without hesitation, monks and nuns at Jing Si Hall began preparing hot meals and joined volunteers to visit evacuation shelters. With compassion and understanding, they listened to the concerns of their fellow citizens, offering comfort and solace amidst the chaos. Their presence was a beacon of hope, reminding those affected that they were not alone. Master Cheng Yen, deeply concerned about the situation, carefully listened to the reports and provided clear instructions for the emergency response mechanisms. Her unwavering commitment extended beyond directives. Master Cheng Yen personally visited the disaster area, expressing her gratitude and care to the firefighters, rescue workers, Tzu Chi volunteers, and other NGOs working tirelessly to provide relief and support. Tzu Chi’s swift and compassionate response to the Hualien earthquake is a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to serving those in need. Despite their challenges, Tzu Chi volunteers and staff selflessly dedicated themselves to providing relief and support to those affected by the disaster. Their actions serve as a beacon of hope and resilience, reminding us of the power of human connection and the transformative impact of compassion.
外界總是驚訝慈濟投入賑災的動員力及全面性,其實這是慈濟如常面對災難的自然反應行動,儘管發生事件的人事時地物不盡相同,但心念與理念是相繫相依的,我們自詡作為「第一線後盾、第二線先鋒」,這是身為NGO慈善組織的本份事,更不曾忘懷全球會員(捐助者)及志工對我們的信任、支持與期待。
The world often marvels at Tzu Chi’s rapid mobilization and comprehensive approach to disaster relief. However, this is simply a natural reflection of our organization’s unwavering commitment to serving those in need. While the specifics of each disaster may vary, the underlying principles and values that guide our actions remain constant. We proudly identify ourselves as the “frontline support, second-line vanguard.” This is not merely a self-proclaimed title; it embodies our responsibility as an NGO charity organization. We never lose sight of the trust, support, and expectations our global members (donors) and volunteers placed upon us. Our swift and comprehensive response to disasters is not merely a matter of efficiency or logistics; it is a testament to our core values of compassion, empathy, and unwavering commitment to serving humanity. We recognize that in the face of tragedy, people need material assistance, emotional support, and a sense of hope.
慈濟救援行動能如此迅速的到位,端賴平日在社區各項服務,培養職志工運作的默契;另一關鍵是透過與政府單位簽訂MOU建立合作機制;除了增強社區韌性,我們更投入防災士與關懷士的訓練與證照推廣,讓防災意識深耕至社區;透過行動環保教育車走入原鄉偏鄉校園,讓敬天愛地的觀念融入學子的生活實踐;我們深信唯有友善地球與環境才是良方解藥。
Tzu Chi’s ability to mobilize and deliver effective disaster relief stems from a multifaceted approach encompassing community engagement, collaborative partnerships, disaster preparedness training, environmental education, and holistic care. Our extensive network of dedicated volunteers, nurtured through ongoing community services, fosters a strong sense of operational synergy. Formal Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with government agencies facilitate seamless coordination and resource sharing. We empower community members through disaster preparedness training, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to mitigate risks, respond effectively to emergencies, and support their communities in times of need. Our mobile environmental education initiatives instill eco-consciousness and encourage environmentally responsible behaviors among students in remote and underserved areas. Recognizing the inextricable link between environmental stewardship and disaster risk reduction, we promote sustainable practices as essential to building resilient communities. Beyond immediate physical assistance, Tzu Chi provides trauma counseling, emotional support, and spiritual guidance to help individuals and communities heal and rebuild their lives. This holistic approach reflects our unwavering commitment to serving humanity, our deep-rooted belief in collaboration, and our vision of a more sustainable future.
2021年10月慈濟率NGO之先,承諾於2050年達淨零排放,爾後即展開溫室氣體盤查,截至2023年底,已完成十個會所(與報告書範疇一致區域)之盤查與查證,進一步以2023年為基準年,規劃2025碳排零成長等相關階段性目標;2023年慈善基金會亦導入TCFD氣候相關財務揭露專案,同時鼓勵同仁取得永續管理相關證照,共同為地球與人類的永續努力。
In October 2021, Tzu Chi became the first NGO to pledge net-zero emissions by 2050. Subsequently, we initiated a greenhouse gas inventory and by the end of 2023, we had completed the inventory and verification of ten venues (consistent with the reporting scope). With 2023 as the base year, we have further planned phased goals such as zero carbon growth by 2025. In 2023, the Tzu Chi Foundation also introduced the TCFD Climate-Related Financial Disclosures Project. We encouraged employees to obtain sustainability management certifications, fostering a collaborative effort toward a sustainable future for the planet and humanity.
位於美國紐約市中心的「氣候時鐘」,分秒不歇的持續倒數著,2024年4月推估,距離地球升溫達攝氏1.5度只剩五年多,所剩時間與進行速度隨全球碳排放量,及國際間減碳作為有所變動,代表著此刻我們正面臨著更嚴峻的氣候挑戰。2023年《全球風險報告書》指出,包括極端氣候、社會兩極分化、國與國衝突,其年度主標Today’s crisis, tomorrow’s catastrophes (今日危機,明日災難),與佛教的「菩薩畏因,眾生畏果」意境不謀而合。
The relentless countdown of the Climate Clock in New York City is a stark reminder of the urgency to combat climate change. In April 2024, it was estimated that we have only five years left before global temperatures rise by 1.5 degrees Celsius. This remaining time frame and the pace of progress are constantly fluctuating in response to global carbon emissions and international climate action. This highlights the increasingly severe climate challenges we face. The 2023 Global Risks Report aptly highlights the interconnectedness of global challenges, with extreme weather events, social polarization, and inter-state conflict identified as the top three risks. This overarching theme of “Today’s Crisis, Tomorrow’s Catastrophes” resonates deeply with the Buddhist philosophy of “Bodhisattvas fear the causes, while sentient beings fear the consequences.”
近年來我們與產官學共善同行,秉持著專業、社會責任與永續發展,同心投入慈善服務;在國際慈善方面,我們與全球超過21個NGO組織合作,借力使力,以跨宗教、領域,各自投入專業與專長讓援助行動更精準快速,截至2023年底慈善援助腳步已踏入133個國家地區。
In recent years, Tzu Chi has been collaborating with various sectors of society, including government agencies, academia, and the private sector, to address these pressing issues. Guided by professionalism, social responsibility, and sustainable development principles, we are committed to providing compassionate services locally and internationally. Tzu Chi has established partnerships with over 21 NGOs worldwide in international charity. These collaborations transcend religious and professional boundaries, allowing us to leverage our collective expertise and resources to deliver timely and practical aid. By the end of 2023, Tzu Chi’s charitable assistance had reached 133 countries and regions.
2023年底,具體簽署《慈悲 平等 愛慈濟基金會人權承諾》,維護人性尊嚴,提供同仁更完整的健檢服務,全面落實幸福職場,營造永續地球家園的目標;我們以國際青年領袖培育計畫(IYLP),培育跨國青年參與國際氣候、環境平台,落實全球化的夥伴連結;在永續發展ESG三大面向,持續推動「志業治理3.0」,提升董事會職能,並強化與各公益關注者的良善溝通。
In 2023, Tzu Chi signed the Tzu Chi Foundation Human Rights Pledge” to reaffirm our commitment to upholding human dignity and fostering a workplace that promotes employee well-being. We are also expanding our healthcare services, providing comprehensive health screenings for our employees. Through the International Youth Leadership Program (IYLP), Tzu Chi empowers young people from diverse backgrounds to engage in international climate and environmental platforms. This initiative fosters global partnerships and strengthens the next generation’s capacity to address sustainability challenges. Following the principles of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors, Tzu Chi is continuously refining our Mission Governance 3.0 framework. This involves improving the capabilities of our board of directors and enhancing communication with stakeholders.
臺灣是太平洋上的蕞爾小島,面積小、人口少,又缺乏天然資源,但是每當世界上重大災難來襲時,全球慈濟人在證嚴上人的感召下,總能及時發揮跨宗教、跨種族、跨洲際的人道救援行動,讓世界看到來自臺灣慈濟的這股善與愛的力量。
Despite its small size, limited resources, and sparse population, Taiwan has consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to humanitarian assistance. Whenever disasters strike around the world, Tzu Chi volunteers, inspired by the guidance of Master Cheng Yen, mobilize to provide cross-religious, cross-racial, and cross-continental relief efforts. Their selfless actions have earned Tzu Chi a reputation as a beacon of compassion and love in Taiwan.
感恩所有的捐款者對慈濟的關注與支持,感恩全球慈濟志工無償的「付出無所求」,感恩精舍師父及基金會同仁無時無間承擔全球慈善的後盾和第一線,我們將持續秉持創辦人「為佛教、為眾生」的使命,步步踏實的守護大地與眾生,期望留給下一代一個和諧永續的未來。
We express our deepest gratitude to all our donors for their unwavering support. We are also immensely grateful to our global Tzu Chi volunteers for their selfless dedication and our monastery monks and foundation staff for their steadfast commitment to providing frontline and backend support for our global charitable endeavors. Guided by our founder’s mission, “For Buddhism and All Sentient Beings,” Tzu Chi remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding our planet and all its inhabitants. We strive to leave a legacy of harmony and sustainability for future generations.