In a critical move to enhance child protection efforts in West Africa, ECPAT International is thrilled to announce Communauté Abel as a new member of its global network. With a distinctive approach rooted in 40 years of hands-on experience, Communauté Abel has been transforming the lives of children facing addiction, exploitation, and violence in Côte d’Ivoire.
Communauté Abel, originating in Italy and extending to Côte d’Ivoire, is an unconventional NGO (Non-Governmental Organisations). Initially focused on aiding those with addiction, they expanded to address the plight of minors in Côte d’Ivoire prisons. Through educational initiatives and centers, they provide free services like food, health care, psychological support, and vocational training, reflecting their unwavering commitment to child protection.
“ECPAT International is proud to collaborate with Communauté Abel, an organization with a strong commitment to ‘Giving dignity to the weak,'” said ECPAT International Executive Director Guillaume Landry. “Their expertise, extensive research capabilities, and innovative approach will be invaluable in our joint mission to end the sexual exploitation of children.”
In Grand Bassam, a city where 40% of children live in poverty, and rates of physical and sexual abuse are alarmingly high, Communauté Abel’s work is essential. With 42% of the population under the age of 15, and 27% married before 18, the challenges are immense. Through tailored services including education, health care, vocational training, and psychological support, Communauté Abel is making strides to improve these children’s lives.
“Joining ECPAT International marks a significant step in our ongoing mission to tackle child exploitation in Grand Bassam,” said Leone De Vita, the Managing Director of Communauté Abel. “Their network, training, and support will enhance our efforts to reduce the worst forms of violence against children and empower them for a brighter future.”
ECPAT International stands as a united front of 126 civil society organisations spread across over 100 nations, each passionately committed to the shared vision of eradicating the sexual exploitation of children. Harnessing the power of over three decades of experience in multi-stakeholder engagement and partnership management, our expansive network operates on national, regional, and global levels. We relentlessly drive forward, fueled by the conviction that every child deserves a world free from sexual exploitation.
For more information about this, please contact Andrew Beaton at communications@ecpat.org or Leone De Vita at devitaleone71@gmail.com.
About ECPAT International
ECPAT International stands as a united front of 126 civil society organisations spread across over 100 nations, each passionately committed to the shared vision of eradicating the sexual exploitation of children. Harnessing the power of over three decades of experience in multi-stakeholder engagement and partnership management, our expansive network operates on national, regional, and global levels. We relentlessly drive forward, fuelled by the conviction that every child deserves a world free from sexual exploitation.
About Communauté Abel
Established in 1982, Communauté Abel is an Ivorian non-profit organization supporting vulnerable children through cultural initiatives, counseling services, educational programs, and professional training for boys and girls aged 14-21. Communauté Abel is the local branch of the Italian association ‘Gruppo Abele Onlus’ and is based in Grand Bassam, where it has been operating for more than 40 years.