Who We Are
The Roya Institute is a New York-based non-profit organization committed to promoting justice and human rights both globally and within New York City and New York State.
Why Roya?
“Roya,” meaning “dream” in several of the most widely spoken languages in the Middle East, such as Arabic, Farsi/Dari, and Turkish, also carries connotations of “ideal,” “desired,” and “the ultimate goal.”
By naming the Institute “Roya,” we reflect the vision that “Global Justice” is the ultimate goal and dream of its founders, members, and colleagues. This vision is central to the Institute’s work, guiding both global initiatives and our growing commitment to addressing the local needs of New York City and New York State. Through this dual approach, the Institute’s planning, policies, and activities are informed by a holistic commitment to justice, inclusivity, and sustainable development, both globally and locally.
Why Global?
The term “Global” encompasses a broad, worldwide perspective, extending beyond human societies to include nature, the environment, and the cosmos. In contrast, “International” typically refers to relations and collaborations between nations.
By choosing “Global” over “International,” we emphasize the importance of justice-based and balanced relationships—not only among humans but also between humanity and nature, the ecosystem, and the environment, as an interconnected and living system. However, in this interconnected world, we also recognize the pressing need to address the unique challenges and opportunities at the local level, particularly within New York City and New York State.
The Institute seeks to integrate its global vision with a commitment to local issues, focusing on the promotion of sustainable development, social justice, and human rights at both global and local levels. Guided by this inclusive perspective, the Institute prioritizes efforts that foster the human-nature relationship, advocate for environmental protection, and address socio-economic challenges at the local level in New York, while promoting similar initiatives globally.
Headquartered in New York City, the Institute, in collaboration with its Advisory Council, oversees, evaluates, and supports both global and local initiatives, bridging the efforts to empower local communities while maintaining global outreach through partnerships and collaborations across the world.
Why Justice?
Justice is a concept that is subject to various interpretations and theoretical frameworks. These debates are crucial because without a solid, influential theory of justice, there can be no path to sustainable, inclusive, and comprehensive justice. Just as the absence of a clear human rights theory prevents societies and states from ensuring the dignity of all individuals, the lack of a well-defined theory of justice hinders the establishment of fair and just systems.
However, despite ongoing theoretical discussions, we must move forward with action. Drawing from centuries of debate, we adopt this definition of justice: “Putting everyone and everything in its proper place.” In other words, justice is about creating a situation where everyone and everything can reach its full potential.
Roya Institute is committed to supporting research, education, public awareness, and policies that foster “equal opportunities” for all. Whether on a global scale or within the local context of New York City and New York State, we aim to advance justice through both local initiatives and international efforts.
As emphasized in the preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, human rights are foundational to justice. It states: “Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world.”
At Roya Institute, we recognize that justice is a broad concept with various, interconnected dimensions. While we remain dedicated to advancing justice on a global scale, we also prioritize specific aspects of justice in our local context, particularly in New York. Our focus includes but not limited to: “Legal Justice”, “Social Justice”, “Educational Justice” and “Cyberspace Justice”. Through these areas, Roya Institute seeks to make meaningful contributions to justice, both globally and locally, while striving to promote dignity, freedom, and peace for all.
Who We Serve
Roya Institute is committed to serving all individuals, both globally and locally. Our core principle is the respect for the dignity of every human being. We actively work to prevent discrimination in all its forms, including but not limited to race, color, sex, language, religion, social or national origin, birthplace, political opinion, or any other basis.
In addition to our global outreach, we place a strong emphasis on addressing the needs of local communities in New York City and New York State, ensuring that we are inclusive in our efforts to support and empower diverse groups within these regions.