One in every six people worldwide is affected by hearing loss – the equivalent of people who own a car. As the population ages – and noise pollution in the world increases – more and more people will be losing their hearing. The consequences of untreated hearing loss can extend as far as complete social isolation. It is estimated that the number of those affected by hearing loss will rise to around 1.1 billion by 2015. In view of these figures, Phonak is determined to take its social responsibility as the leading expert in the field seriously and has established the Hear the World initiative.
» See Hear the World spot

Hear the World is a global initiative by Phonak to raise awareness about the importance of hearing and the consequences of hearing loss – a problem that affects more than 16% of the world’s population. The initiative addresses the social and psychological effects of hearing loss, and provides information on prevention and solutions. Our ability to hear is a fundamental part of our lives, and yet most people take it for granted.

As the leading manufacturer of innovative hearing systems, Phonak has long recognized the need for better awareness about the topic of hearing. Which is why Phonak created the global Hear the World initiative: a unique communication platform which in many different ways is committed to people and projects that are dedicated to the issue of hearing.

Hear the World is committed to making people aware of how important it is to avoid hearing loss and how to take prompt steps to correct it.

The vision of Hear the World is a world where

• the sense of hearing is cherished and protected,
• the topic of hearing is of greater importance,
• people are aware of listening,
• wearing a hearing system is no longer a taboo and
• having a hearing loss is no longer a handicap.

» More about the mission

In the context of the Hear the World initiative, Phonak has established the non-profit Hear the World Foundation to improve the quality of life of people with hearing loss through financial assistance and the provision of hearing systems. The foundation is committed to the prevention of hearing loss as well as the support of people affected by hearing loss and their families.
» More about the Foundation

No other art can endorse the importance of good hearing better than music. It is universal and transcends geographical, social and linguistic boundaries. Music is the ideal medium to spread the message of Hear the World. World-renowned performers support Hear the World and share Phonak’s commitment to raising awareness of hearing and hearing loss throughout the world. They have all been photographed by Bryan Adams, the official photographer for the initiative.
» More about the ambassadors
» How you can help