Our founder and CEO, Chris Abbott, has been named one of the inaugural inductees into the Charity Hall of Fame – the world’s first Hall of Fame dedicated to civil society changemakers.
Chris has been recognised in the Social Pioneers category, which honours individuals who were the first to tackle an issue or bring about change in their field or community. He joins an inspiring cohort of just 22 inductees. These include historic figures such as National Trust co-founder Octavia Hill and philanthropist Joseph Rowntree, alongside contemporary changemakers like CoppaFeel! founder Kris Hallenga and civil rights icon Paul Stephenson.
Speaking about the first inductees, Malcolm John, Chair of the Induction Panel, said: “These inductees truly shine a light on what it means to create lasting change. Their impact is felt not just in the UK, but across the world, and we are proud to honour their legacy.”
While the award carries Chris’s name, it reflects the collective work of our team, partners, and supporters. As Chris said in response to the news: “It’s really a tribute to the incredible team I work with and the inspiring people we support around the world. It’s also a reflection of the values that shape our work every day: justice, community, and solidarity.”
Celebrating collective impact
This recognition comes at a time of continued growth and global reach for Open Briefing. In 2024 alone, we responded to 575 calls for support from at-risk human rights defenders and grassroots movements in over 100 countries. Our team – now 41 staff and consultants based across 18 countries – delivered more than 6,000 hours of holistic security support and trained over 1,000 activists through our workshops.
From environmental campaigners in Mexico to LGBTQIA+ advocates in Uganda, our work spans continents and causes – always grounded in the principle that those challenging unaccountable power deserve protection and support.
Much of this work is done behind the scenes, quietly and collaboratively. That’s by design. We exist to serve the people and movements challenging unaccountable power – often at great personal risk.
Across the world, civil society is facing one of the most challenging periods in living memory. But awards like this remind us to pause and recognise the impact we’re making together. This award acknowledges not just what we’ve built, but how we’ve built it: as a mission-driven nonprofit rooted in values, working globally in deep partnership with those we serve.
“Now more than ever we need pioneers like the 22 that I’m proud the Charity Hall of Fame is honouring this year,” said Jamie Ward-Smith, founder of the Charity Hall of Fame. “It’s a chance to celebrate extraordinary individuals past and present whose passion, commitment, and innovative spirit transformed society.”
Looking ahead
As we continue into 2025, we’re focused on expanding access to our rapid-response protection services, deepening regional partnerships, and continuing to decolonise and localise our work. We know the road ahead is difficult – but with your support, we can continue acting in solidarity with those who speak out for justice, peace, and rights.
To everyone who has trusted us, challenged us, and supported us: Thank you. This honour is yours too.
Visit the Charity Hall of Fame for more information.