The concept of Humanity First originates from a desire to provide aid on the basis of need alone, irrespective of race, religion, colour or political allegiance. The organisation was established in London, UK and registered in 1994 by then worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih IV (ra).

Humanity First is an international charity that provides disaster relief and long term development assistance to vulnerable communities in 52 countries across 6 continents. The organisation is run by volunteers with diverse skillsets across the world and has access to thousands of extra volunteers worldwide. Volunteer staff in all areas (operations, expert medics, engineers and teachers) often pay their own expenses to support the international projects.

The organisation differentiates itself in the aid industry with a high level of efficiency. Extensive use of volunteers, partnerships and global sourcing results in high levels of funds going straight to projects. Similarly, the value of the aid delivered (projects as well as free man-hours of doctors, engineers and teachers) is greater than the value of donations received. Uniquely, volunteer staff often pay their own international expenses.

As immediate disaster responses conclude, the charity also often begins rehabilitation services through orphan care, water infrastructure and vocational training.

The organisation gained Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

Under the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aa), the operations of Humanity First have expanded manifold with them flying to any part of the world where humanity is in need of help. While disaster relief remains HF's greatest speciality, its teams work globally to provide healthcare facilities to the underprivileged parts of the world.