About Us

Buddhism has developed into many schools and traditions, including Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana, and has spread from Asia to communities around the world. Although their customs and practices may differ, Buddhists share the teachings of the Buddha and the aspiration to cultivate peace, wisdom and compassion.

The World Fellowship of Buddhists was founded through the initiative of the distinguished Sri Lankan Pali scholar Dr. G. P. Malalasekera. It was formally inaugurated at Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Sri Lanka, on 25 May 1950, a day associated with Vesak.

The first WFB Headquarters was established in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where its first president, Dr. G. P. Malalasekera, resided. After Hon. U. Chan Htoon of Myanmar became president in 1958, the Headquarters was moved to Yangon.

In 1963, H.S.H. Princess Poon Pismai Diskul became the first Thai president of the WFB, and the Headquarters was transferred to Bangkok, Thailand. At the 9th WFB General Conference in 1969, Bangkok was officially designated as the permanent location of the WFB Headquarters.

Today, the WFB connects more than 180 Regional Centres in 50 countries. It coordinates Buddhist activities around the world and supports its Regional Centres in promoting the Dhamma, peace and the well-being of humankind.

What are WFB's aims
and key objectives?

To encourage members to faithfully observe and practice the teachings of the Buddha;

To strengthen unity, solidarity and fellowship among Buddhists throughout the world;

To promote and propagate the sublime teachings of the Buddha;

To organize and support activities in social welfare, education, culture and other humanitarian fields;

To work for peace and harmony among people, happiness for all beings and cooperation with other organizations pursuing the same goals.

The WFB remains independent from direct or indirect involvement in political activities. Its General Conference, held every two years, enables Regional Centres to exchange ideas and experiences and to strengthen cooperation among Buddhists worldwide.