Joint Learning Initiative on Faith & Local Communities (JLI)
Background
Overview
The Joint Learning Initiative on Faith & Local Communities (JLI) is an international collaboration established in 2012, comprising development organizations, UN agencies, academic institutions, and religious bodies. JLI focuses on generating and disseminating evidence regarding the roles and contributions of faith-based groups in humanitarian and development efforts. Its mission is to enhance partnerships between faith and non-faith actors at both international and local levels.
Mission and Vision
JLI's mission is to serve as a learning network for researchers and practitioners, fostering fair and equitable spaces to create and share evidence on religions in development and community work. The vision is to ensure full and appropriate engagement of religious and faith-based groups in achieving development and humanitarian goals through effective partnerships with academic, public sector, secular entities, and among religious groups themselves.
Primary Area of Focus
JLI concentrates on understanding and enhancing the engagement of faith-based groups in humanitarian and development contexts. This includes assessing their activities, contributions, and the challenges they face in achieving humanitarian and development objectives.
Industry Significance
By bridging the gap between faith-based organizations and secular entities, JLI plays a crucial role in promoting inclusive and effective humanitarian and development responses. Its work contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of faith-based groups in various global contexts.
Key Strategic Focus
Core Objectives
- Fair and Equitable Approach: JLI actively challenges power imbalances in knowledge and evidence within religions and development by embedding fair and equitable practices across all its research, evidence, learning, and partnership work.
- REAL (Research, Evidence, Accountability, and Learning): JLI is a leading global provider of research, evidence, learning, and capacity sharing that strengthens practical religious engagement strategies for faith and development actors both locally and globally.
- Member and Network Engagement: JLI is recognized as a broad network of diverse international and local (faith) actors, researchers, and practitioners, providing a platform for intersectoral and multi-stakeholder engagement that advances religion and development knowledge and learning.
Specific Areas of Specialization
JLI specializes in facilitating research and evidence generation on the roles of faith-based groups in development and humanitarian contexts. It hosts Learning Hubs focusing on areas such as Anti-Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, Ending Violence Against Children, Gender-Based Violence, Refugees and Forced Migration, and Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning.
Key Technologies Utilized
JLI employs various research methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative analyses, to assess the impact of faith-based groups. It utilizes digital platforms for knowledge sharing and collaboration among its global network.
Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted
JLI targets global humanitarian and development sectors, focusing on regions where faith-based groups play a significant role in community well-being. Its work addresses issues such as human trafficking, violence against children, gender-based violence, and the challenges faced by refugees and displaced populations.
Financials and Funding
Funding History
JLI has received funding from a diverse range of sources, including foundations, UN agencies, and faith-based organizations. Notable contributors include the GHR Foundation, UNHCR, UNICEF, the Henry Luce Foundation, DanChurch Aid, Religions for Peace, Tearfund, and World Vision.
Total Funds Raised
In 2023, JLI reported total revenue of $946,296.
Recent Funding Rounds
Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.
Notable Investors
JLI's funding partners include major organizations such as UNICEF, Religions for Peace, and various UN agencies.
Intended Utilization of Capital
The funds are utilized to support JLI's research initiatives, capacity-building programs, and the operation of Learning Hubs. Capital is also allocated to advocacy efforts and the development of knowledge products that inform policy and practice in the humanitarian and development sectors.
Pipeline Development
Key Pipeline Candidates
JLI's pipeline includes various research projects and initiatives aimed at understanding and enhancing the role of faith-based groups in development and humanitarian contexts.
Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development
As a research and advocacy organization, JLI does not engage in clinical trials or product development.
Target Conditions
JLI's initiatives target issues such as human trafficking, violence against children, gender-based violence, and the challenges faced by refugees and displaced populations.
Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones
Specific timelines for JLI's initiatives are outlined in their annual reports and project updates.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Proprietary Technologies
JLI does not develop proprietary technologies but leverages existing digital platforms and research methodologies to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Significant Scientific Methods
JLI employs a range of scientific methods, including qualitative and quantitative research, participatory action research, and case studies, to assess the impact of faith-based groups in various contexts.
AI-Driven Capabilities
There is no publicly available information indicating that JLI utilizes AI-driven capabilities in its operations.
Leadership Team
Key Executive Profiles
- Kirsten Laursen Muth: CEO until June 2023.
- Maurice Bloem: Interim CEO as of August 2023.
Professional Backgrounds
- Kirsten Laursen Muth: Served as CEO of JLI, leading the organization in its mission to enhance the role of faith-based groups in humanitarian and development efforts.
- Maurice Bloem: Assumed the role of Interim CEO in August 2023, bringing experience in organizational leadership and development.
Key Contributions or Roles within the Company
- Kirsten Laursen Muth: Oversaw strategic direction and operations, fostering partnerships and guiding research initiatives.
- Maurice Bloem: Provides interim leadership, ensuring continuity and strategic focus during the transition period.
Leadership Changes
Recent Significant Changes or Appointments
- Kirsten Laursen Muth: Completed tenure as CEO in June 2023.
- Maurice Bloem: Appointed Interim CEO in August 2023.
Details of Predecessor Roles and Dates
- Kirsten Laursen Muth: Served as CEO until June 2023.
- Maurice Bloem: Assumed the role of Interim CEO in August 2023.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The sector in which JLI operates is characterized by a growing recognition of the importance of faith-based organizations in humanitarian and development efforts. There is an increasing emphasis on inclusive and collaborative approaches that integrate the capacities of faith-based groups with those of secular entities.
Competitor Analysis
Key organizations in this space include:
- Religions for Peace: An interfaith organization that collaborates with JLI on initiatives such as the Faith and Positive Change for Children project.
- World Vision International: Partners with JLI to build, interpret, and communicate evidence on local faith actors' roles in development and humanitarian action.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
JLI has established significant collaborations with organizations like UNICEF, Religions for Peace, and World Vision International. These partnerships enhance JLI's capacity to influence policy and practice in the humanitarian and development sectors.
Operational Insights
JLI differentiates itself through its focus on fair and equitable approaches, ensuring that local faith actors have a voice in research and decision-making processes. This commitment to inclusivity strengthens its position in the sector.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Strategic Roadmap
JLI aims to expand its Learning Hubs, deepen partnerships with faith-based and secular organizations, and enhance its research capabilities to influence global humanitarian and development policies effectively.
Future Business Directions
Future directions include increasing regional engagement, particularly in areas with significant faith-based community presence, and developing new initiatives that address emerging global challenges.
