A21 Campaign

A21 Campaign. The A21 Campaign is a global non-governmental organization dedicated to the abolition of human trafficking and modern-day slavery through a multi-faceted approach. Founded in 2008 by Christine Caine and Nick Caine, the organization operates across multiple continents, focusing on prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership. Its work is recognized by various international bodies and it collaborates with entities like the United Nations and local law enforcement agencies worldwide.

History and founding

The organization was established in 2008 by Christine Caine, a prominent Australian activist and author, alongside her husband Nick Caine. The inspiration for its founding stemmed from Christine Caine's encounter with the scale of human trafficking while traveling in Eastern Europe, particularly after learning about issues in nations like Ukraine. The name "A21" symbolizes the goal of abolishing injustice in the 21st century. Initial operations were launched in Greece, a key transit point for trafficking into the European Union, before expanding to other critical regions such as Thailand, Bulgaria, and the United States.

Mission and objectives

The core mission is to eradicate human trafficking through a strategic framework often summarized as "Reach, Rescue, and Restore." Primary objectives include preventing trafficking through public awareness campaigns, rescuing victims by working with authorities like the National Police of Ukraine, and restoring survivors through comprehensive aftercare programs. The organization also aims to prosecute traffickers by strengthening legal systems and advocates for policy changes, collaborating with institutions like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the European Parliament.

Activities and campaigns

Key activities are divided into distinct operational pillars. The "Can You See Me?" and "Stop the Traffik" campaigns utilize media and events in cities like London, New York City, and Sydney to raise public awareness. Direct intervention includes operating crisis helplines in countries including Greece and Thailand, and conducting outreach in red-light districts in Amsterdam and Bangkok. The organization provides legal aid to survivors, aiding prosecutions in courts from Athens to Oslo, and runs restoration homes offering trauma care, education, and vocational training.

Impact and recognition

The organization has reported significant impact, including assisting thousands of survivors and contributing to numerous arrests and convictions of traffickers across its operational countries. It has received recognition from entities such as the United Nations Global Initiative to Fight Human Trafficking and has been featured at major events like the Global Freedom Summit. Its awareness campaigns, such as the "Walk for Freedom" held annually in hundreds of cities from Cape Town to Los Angeles, have mobilized millions of participants globally.

Organizational structure

Headquartered with offices in Australia and the United States, the organization maintains a decentralized international presence with teams across Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is governed by a board of directors and led by founders Christine Caine and Nick Caine. Field offices in nations like Ukraine, South Africa, and Bulgaria are staffed by local specialists who coordinate with regional partners, including the Hellenic Police and the Royal Thai Police. Funding is derived from private donations, grants from foundations, and partnerships with corporations and churches worldwide.

Category:Human rights organizations Category:Organizations established in 2008