Since 1991, FXB has been working for sustainable development and improving the living conditions of the most vulnerable communities in India. Its sister-entity, FXB India Suraksha, benefits from a FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) and is registered as a local non-governmental organization.
Context
While India is in the top 5 of the world economy, half of its population is poor, and nearly a third of its population lives in extreme poverty according to UNDP.
Trafficking in human beings and abuse of children, including forced labour and early marriage, are among the most serious human rights violations in India. Despite legislative reforms, women are extremely vulnerable, victims of discrimination, sexual harassment, rape, domestic violence and honour killings.
Our action in India
1.Reducing the vulnerability of indigenous tribal children to human trafficking and sexual abuse in Jharkhand
(Project operated by FXB Switzerland)
Together with its consortium partners, FXB conducted a two-year action research in the Santhal Pargana region to identify the factors that exposed children to abuse and exploitation.
The results highlighted multiple vulnerabilities, such as sexual abuse, alcoholism, fear of touching and forced marriages of very young girls. Frequent migration is often linked to human trafficking. Services to vulnerable populations were insufficient due to a lack of awareness, training, resources and infrastructure. Primary research data also highlighted the prevalence of sexual abuse of children, particularly girls aged 13-18.
An action plan was developed with the community to strengthen child protection, leading to a second phase of the project, implemented from 2022 and for four years. It aims to reduce the vulnerability of indigenous tribal children in Pakur, Godda and Dumka districts to human trafficking and sexual abuse.
The objectives of the project include strengthening local institutions, improving the prevention of child exploitation, strengthening the capacity of service providers, assistance to victims and raising awareness among policy makers.
2. Discover the FXB India Suraksha projects
Our impact in India
In 2021, FXB India Suraksha won second place in the BRICS India Solutions for Sustainable Development Goals Awards.
have benefited from FXB's actions since 1991, notably through HIV awareness and prevention campaigns in all states and territories of the Indian Union.
have been implemented in the states of Tamil Nadu, Manipur, Andhra Pradesh and Pondicherry, enabling more than 7,000 adults and children to leave poverty in a sustainable manner.
Life course
Mina's rescue
Mina is 13 years old and lives in an indigenous tribe. Like many girls in her community, she faced the prospect of forced marriage, a common practice exacerbated by poverty and lack of awareness of children's rights.
The social workers of the project led by FXB, during their community interventions, learned that Mina's parents planned to marry her very soon. They immediately engaged in a dialogue with the family, explaining the negative impact of early marriage on the health and education of girls. Through long and in-depth awareness sessions and discussions, Mina's parents understood the importance of education and cancelled the planned marriage.
However, returning to school was not easy for Mina. She faced the stigma and mockery of some members of the community. FXB then worked with community leaders to promote the importance of girls' education and combat discrimination. Awareness-raising campaigns had been conducted to change attitudes and encourage support for girls ' education.
Today, Mina is back in school, with her head high. She has become an example for other girls in her community, demonstrating that with adequate support and awareness, it is possible to overcome harmful traditions and build a better future.