Cambodia
Survivors of trafficking and violence often carry trauma long after the immediate crisis has passed. In Cambodia, Hagar’s counsellors create safe spaces where survivors can begin processing what they have experienced and start rebuilding their lives.
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The Issue
In Cambodia, many survivors of trafficking and abuse are left to rebuild their lives after experiencing severe trauma, often with little support.
The country continues to face high levels of human trafficking and violence, with many women and children affected.
For survivors, the impact goes far beyond the initial harm. Trauma can affect their sense of self, their relationships, and their ability to move forward safely and independently.
Without support, many remain vulnerable to further exploitation, with no clear pathway to recovery.
What Hagar did
Hagar Cambodia provides comprehensive, survivor-centred support through The Whole Journey programme, addressing immediate needs while building long-term resilience.
In Q4 2025 (Oct-Dec 2025), 203 survivors received support including food assistance, counselling, legal aid, healthcare, education, housing support, and economic empowerment.
Mental health support played a key role in recovery. Among survivors receiving counselling, 87% reported reduced anxiety and 89% showed improved resilience, helping them regain stability and confidence.
Economic empowerment support also helped survivors rebuild independence. A total of 114 survivors received training, job placement, or small business support, with 86% now generating income to support themselves and their families.
At the same time, Hagar worked with communities and local authorities to strengthen prevention and protection systems, reaching over 1,000 community members with awareness on trafficking and safe migration, and training frontline responders to better identify and support survivors.
Why it mattered
As a result of this support, 25 survivors were able to successfully transition out of Hagar’s services this quarter, demonstrating increased resilience and the ability to live independently.
With improved mental health, stable income, and stronger support systems, survivors are better equipped to rebuild their lives and reduce the risk of future harm.
At the same time, strengthened community awareness and local systems mean more people can recognise risks early and respond effectively.
Together, this work is helping survivors move from vulnerability to stability, and from stability to independence.
