Founded in 1978, Human Rights Watch (HRW) investigates and reports on abuses happening in all corners of the world. It gathers experts, lawyers, journalists, and others who work to protect the most at risk, from vulnerable minorities and civilians in wartime to refugees and children in need. It directs its advocacy toward governments, armed groups, and businesses, pushing them to change or enforce their laws, policies, and practices. HRW refuses government funding to ensure its independence and carefully reviews all donations to ensure they are consistent with its policies, mission, and values. It seeks to protect embattled activists and help hold abusers to account, and bring justice to victims.