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Hagar is an international non-governmental organisation on a mission to restore life and dignity for survivors of human trafficking, slavery and abuse. Our global programmes are led by skilled local teams and implementing partners in the Asia-Pacific region.
Communities free and healed from the trauma of human trafficking, slavery and abuse.
We walk the whole journey of restoration with each survivor, empower communities to prevent exploitation, and strengthen systems to protect the vulnerable.
Respect: We believe in the right of all people to be heard and treated with respect and dignity.
Integrity: We commit to act ethically and honestly and to always strive to do the right thing.
Compassion: We want compassion and kindness to be evident in our attitude and communication in active, practical ways.
Excellence: We hold ourselves to high standards. We listen and learn from those we support, our partners and from each other, to continuously improve all that we do.
Hagar began in 1994 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in response to severe domestic and community violence in the aftermath of the Khmer Rouge genocide.
In 2008, Hagar began operations in Afghanistan, and in 2009, opened its office in Vietnam. In 2015, Hagar launched programming in Singapore and began working in Myanmar in partnership with local organisations. In 2021, Hagar began working the Solomon Islands through local partner, HOPE Trust, and expanded into Thailand in 2023 with the integration of LIFT International.
The Hebrew name Hagar means “one who flees” or “one who seeks refuge.” The story of Hagar and her son, Ishmael, is the story of millions of exploited, abused, and trafficked women and children.
In 2000 BC, Hagar worked in a foreign land as a domestic servant for a rich man named Abraham and his wife, Sarah. Sarah was unable to bear children, and following a common practice at the time, she offered her servant to Abraham. When Hagar became pregnant, Sarah grew jealous and threw her out of their home. An angel found Hagar alone in the desert. He promised a blessing on her child, naming him Ishmael, which means, “God hears.” In response Hagar declared: “You are the God who sees me.” The story is known to many faiths including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.
Hagar is committed to providing sanctuary and hope to women and children like Hagar and Ishmael, walking the whole journey with each one.
Our Impact
When you support Hagar, you join a global community committed to restoring lives and transforming the world.
By partnering with Hagar, you help survivors heal from trauma and severe abuse. Our work depends on the generosity of people like you.