This document discusses the origin and purpose of the annual "Hope-Barometer" survey, which was started in 2009 to study and promote discussion of hope as a counterbalance to existing surveys that focus on fear, worries, and worst-case scenarios. It aims to collect data on hope through an online survey measuring various aspects of hope, outlook, meaning, and well-being. The survey has grown over time and in 2013 included nearly 22,000 participants across Switzerland, France, Germany and the Czech Republic. Results are shared with the public and media to bring more attention to discussions of hope within academia and politics.