Matthieu Ricard Karuna-Shechen

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Cooperating for sustainable impact

Karuna-Shechen, the association founded by Matthieu Ricard, is launching its end-of-year campaign on the theme of altruistic cooperation. It is the force that gives life to each of our projects. Together, we are working to enable men and women to express their altruism, to take action and to be agents of change. Last year, this collective dynamic enabled almost 500,000 people in India, Nepal and Tibet to take another step towards a better future.

Discover how we are working together to make a real and sustainable difference to the lives of thousands of people in India, Nepal and Tibet.

Together, let’s build a future of peace and solidarity!

Learn more

Support the association*

* Until 31 December, your donation is tax deductible in France, Switzerland, the USA or Hong Kong, depending on the currency of payment.

In 1997, Matthieu Ricard chose to use all the royalties from his first book, “The Monk and the Philosopher,” to undertake humanitarian projects. Living among the Himalayan populations, he felt the need to address inequalities and alleviate the suffering he observed in this region and he inspired friends and patrons to support this endeavor. Inspired by Buddhist teachings and ethics, the Karuna-Shechen adventure begins !

I believe that all those who accompany our projects are convinced of the importance of cultivating in their hearts an altruistic state of mind with humility, joy, and determination. It is in this ideal of ‘compassion in action’ that I founded Karuna-Shechen.
— Matthieu Ricard, Co-founder and Honorary President of the Association

Taking Action and Advocating for an Altruistic World

Founded in 2000 by Matthieu Ricard, Karuna-Shechen acts and advocates for a more altruistic world with the conviction that altruism is a key to building the world of tomorrow, and it offers concrete solutions to the challenges of our century.

TAKING ACTION : Karuna-Shechen contributes to breaking the cycle of poverty, strengthening resilience of disadvantaged populations. The organization works in India, Nepal and Tibet, through a community-based and holistic approach interconnecting health and hygiene, education, food security, economic development, and environment.

Karuna’s Impact

ADVOCACY : Karuna-Shechen invites everyone to develop their altruistic potential and to journey together towards a more compassionate, resilient, and peaceful world. The organization offers opportunities to cultivate inspiration through meditation and mindfulness practices, and to participate in specific projects.

Karuna’s Advocacy