Acid Survivors Foundation (Bangladesh)

Structure and core activities

The foundation combines direct services with policy advocacy. Its programs typically include medical referrals and support, psychological counselling, legal assistance, livelihood and skills training, and efforts to reintegrate survivors into families and communities. ASF also conducts public education and works with health providers, law enforcement and the judiciary to strengthen responses to acid violence.

• Medical and rehabilitation: arranging treatment, reconstructive surgery and follow-up care;
• Legal aid: assisting survivors to seek justice, pursue prosecutions and access compensation;
• Prevention: awareness campaigns, community education and advocacy for better regulation of corrosive substances;
• Research and policy: documenting cases, advising on legislation and promoting protective measures.

History and development

ASF was established in 1999 with support from international partners, including UNICEF (UNICEF) and the Canadian International Development Agency. It grew from grassroots efforts to a national actor that mobilized medical, legal and social resources to address a specific form of gendered and criminal violence. Over time the organization helped spur public attention and law reform related to acid attacks.

Recognition and notable figures

One of the co-founders, Monira Rahman, has been publicly recognized for her work on behalf of survivors; she received international human rights recognition in the mid-2000s (Monira Rahman, awarded by organizations including Amnesty International — see Human Rights Award). Such awards drew wider attention to ASF's mission and to the broader problem of acid violence.

Importance and ongoing challenges

ASF's combination of survivor support, advocacy and prevention has been influential in changing how Bangladesh responds to acid attacks. Nevertheless, challenges remain: ensuring timely medical care across regions, enforcing protective laws, controlling access to corrosive substances and transforming social attitudes that contribute to targeted attacks. The organization's work continues to serve as a model for integrated responses to similar forms of assault in other countries.