World Vision's Federated Identity
Locally led and globally connected, World Vision’s partnership model strengthens community leadership while fostering international collaboration and impact.
Governance Across the World Vision Partnership
World Vision’s member entities are primarily locally staffed and governed through a range of structures. As of 2024, across World Vision offices globally:
40 have local governing boards and operate as independent legal entities
18 have national advisory councils
31 are program offices of World Vision International
Many entities in the Global South raise some or all of their resources directly
23 VisionFund microfinance institutions have their own governing boards
World Vision country offices — including those with local boards and legal registrations — strive to communicate both their national identity and their membership in a global federated partnership, emphasizing the value of this connection.
Locally led and globally connected
World Vision has a distinct identity shaped by a commitment to shared leadership and local empowerment. In 1978, as part of as part of the global transition to self-determination and in response to our to leaders from the Global South, World Vision made the bold decision to “internationalize” — divesting authority from the founding U.S. office and forming a global partnership of separate, equal, and interdependent entities. These entities are united by a shared commitment expressed in our Covenant of Partnership.
World Vision’s highest decision-making body, the Triennial Council, includes all national boards and councils, with a majority of voting members from the Global South. A diverse, global board is democratically elected through seven regional councils. As part of our commitment to child participation, World Vision also ensures children’s active involvement in the Triennial Council, amplifying their voices in shaping programming, advocacy, and organizational direction.
This federated partnership enables World Vision to be locally led and globally connected. Each office is deeply embedded in its local civil society, with trusted relationships, local knowledge, and strong community networks that enhance its ability to serve effectively. At the same time, our global interconnectedness allows us to respond with solidarity to complex challenges, maintain neutrality in crisis, uphold international standards, and manage risk in a compliance-driven aid system.
Learn more about our structure.
