The BBC’s worldwide development organization, BBC Media Action, utilizes media and communication to fight poverty, advance health, and help people realize their rights. It is a separate charity that is supported by donations from the public and outside funds. In more than 35 developing and transitional nations worldwide, BBC Media Action collaborates with the BBC World Service, local media, and development partners. The charity was established in 1999 as a result of earlier BBC programs. The organization changed its name to BBC Media Action in 2011. The organization’s projects and activities safeguard lives, safeguard livelihoods, dispel rumors, combat discrimination, and advance democracy.