Acid violence plagued the 90s in Bangladesh. A significant number of cases were reported every year, initially spreading fear amongst the public, especially among women and children. Then gradually with the increasing prevalence of the heinous crime came the rising desensitization of the country’s people. Cases soon became mere numbers, survivors–the result of a basic misfortune, and attackers but some passionate, ill-tempered individuals. It was the most depressing moment in Bangladesh’s acid attack history predicting a bleak future. 1999, the founding members of ASF came together with the mission and vision to eradicate acid violence from the country and uplift survivors.

Today, looking back, the success of the organization is undeniably evident. Compared to the hundreds of cases reported each year, two decades ago, to a handful number of cases now, is proof of ASF’s success in enacting its goals. Our work, however, is not yet over. Over 3,800 survivors live across the country today without proper access to health care. Besides the lifelong physical suffering survivors must endure, thousands are yet to mentally and emotionally recover from their pasts and are, therefore, unable to reintegrate with their societies and flourish. ASF is the country’s only NGO serving survivors without charge. In other words, survivors only hope to get restored back to society and live dignified lives. It is thereby, incumbent upon us to overcome all odds and bring them the necessary services required to heal from the trauma, feel empowered and thrive again in their societies. ASF ventured out with the dream to create an acid-violence-free Bangladesh and empower survivors. Curbing the endemic overtime necessitated lofty undertakings which were made possible through generous donations. We are forever grateful to our donors and partners for being part of our journey thus far.