ASF was founded in 1999 (Reg#1501) in concern to the rising trend of acid violence in Bangladesh. Acid violence is a form of gender-based violence that reflects and perpetuates the inequality of women in society. Gender-based violence is prevalent in Bangladesh. This form of violence cuts across cultural and religious barriers and impedes women’s rights to fully participate in society. It has the effect of denying women basic human rights to economic and social well-being, political participation, personal fulfilment, and self-worth
The Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF) was formed on 12 May 1999 with the growing concern of the rising trend of acid violence in Bangladesh. It was established as an independent, non-government, non-profit organization by women’s rights activists and concerned citizens of Bangladesh, intent on raising awareness and providing support to survivors of the country’s prevalent acid attacks.
It is the only specialized NGO in Bangladesh working as a “Centre of Excellence” with a vision of Bangladesh free from acid violence, where burn victims–especially women and children–live with dignity.
Our mission is to prevent acid and burn violence and empower survivors, especially women and children, by working with an integrated approach using a replicable holistic bio psycho social model which engages all national and international stakeholders and is backed by research, experience and evidence.