Ratanak International is a Christ-centered organization committed to serving Cambodia by being an agent of change in its social, economic, and spiritual landscape. Since 1990, Ratanak International has funded emergency relief, medical, education and infrastructure projects all over the country. In 2012, Ratanak International launched its anti-exploitation projects which focuses on the prevention, restoration and re-integration of victims of exploitation, from girls sold into the sex trafficking industry to migrant workers. All proceeds raised from the 5KM Walkathon is given to Ratanak International.

Ratanak International’s 4 key responses:

PREVENT

Equip Cambodians to prevent exploitation

One way to confront human trafficking and exploitation is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Ratanak seeks to address the root causes of exploitation by teaching villagers what human trafficking is and how it works. The training is entirely community-based and indigenous, run by Cambodians who minister to their own people. It has grown into a respected institution where village chiefs, local police, pastors and government officials all study together for the protection and blessing of the families around them. We also believe that prevention requires both awareness and opportunities, and seek to equip the vulnerable with sustainable living opportunities.

PROTECT

Work collaboratively to protect the vulnerable

Ratanak is passionate in our desire to assist in the rebuilding of social structures that will allow this beautiful country to once again care for and protect its own people. Our programs address the needs of those who are marginalized by society and left without support due to a lack of social or government structures.

RETURN

Help the trafficked return home

As Cambodia emerges from decades of conflict and war that destabilized the nation’s economy and societal structure, rapid economic growth has increased the gap between the poor and the rich. This growth is largely evident in urban centres, and not in rural areas where 91% of the poor live. An inadequate education system and limited vocational opportunities, especially for youth, have led to a large number of unskilled workers unable to find employment to support their families. In search of more opportunities, workers leave their families for urban centres, or cross the border to nearby countries, where they are highly vulnerable to exploitation. Many of them are trafficked or forced into labour and sexual exploitation. Ratanak collaborates with embassies, government officials, and local authorities to bring Cambodians who have been trafficked overseas back home to their families. We provide counselling, care packages, medical check-ups and offer them the opportunity to develop skills that can equip them to safely support their families in the future. We also seek to promote safe migration to decrease the risk of trafficking and re-trafficking.

RESTORE

Persevere in love to restore survivors

After survivors of exploitation have escaped or been rescued, they still face a long journey of healing to find freedom psychologically and emotionally. Often the transition out of that life is difficult and sometimes even life-threatening. The effects of repeated trauma are long-term, and last for years. They endure social stigma on a daily basis, and must still find ways to support their families despite few opportunities for jobs or an education. We empower survivors, once vulnerable, exploited and oppressed, to live with dignity and hope. With continued counselling, life skills training, education, and a supportive community environment, young women are provided the emotional and physical skills and self-reliance needed for a successful life away from exploitation.