Global Action for Freedom 2026: Communities and Experts Unite to Prevent Human Trafficking in Disaster Contexts
Freedom in Disasters will convene international organisations, practitioners, and community participants in Kathmandu this April as part of Global Action for Freedom 2026, an initiative designed to raise awareness and strengthen global efforts to prevent human trafficking in disaster contexts.
The initiative coincides with the launch of the International Standard for Counter Human Trafficking Programming in Disasters, the first international framework designed to guide humanitarian organisations, governments, and disaster response practitioners in addressing trafficking risks that arise following disasters.
The initiative is being organised in collaboration with the Alliance Against Trafficking in Women and Children in Nepal (AATWIN), a national level network of non-governmental organizations to strengthen the campaign against human trafficking and for human rights in Nepal.
Activities taking place in Kathmandu include a practitioner workshop bringing together NGOs and disaster response organisations to explore practical tools for implementing the new standard, followed by the official international launch event attended by invited stakeholders, government representatives, and members of the media.
The initiative will conclude with a community Charity Hike in the Kathmandu Valley, where participants will walk through the Haatiban forest area to raise awareness and funds supporting efforts to prevent human trafficking in disaster situations.
In addition to the Nepal events, individuals and organisations around the world are invited to participate through Global Self-Guided Action Days, organising their own walks and awareness activities to support the initiative.
“Disasters often create conditions that traffickers exploit,” said Matt Dorfstaetter, from Freedom in Disasters. “Global Action for Freedom is about bringing communities, practitioners, and organisations together to ensure that disaster response includes protection from exploitation.”
Global Action for Freedom 2026 aims to mobilise international attention to the risks of human trafficking following disasters and to strengthen collaboration between humanitarian, development, and counter-trafficking actors.
More information about the initiative and participation opportunities can be found at: Global Action for Freedom 2026