Aclaim - Our History

Aclaim started life in 2002 as 'Friends of Mukti Ashram'. The organisation was established to support the work of two transitory rehabilitation centres, located near Delhi, India, which provide care and education to children freed from bonded labour and servitude.

Mukti Ashram (its name means Freedom House) was established in 1991 and since that date has helped more than 3,200 boys overcome the brutality of bonded labour. Its sister ashram, Balika Ashram, was established in 1999 to provide a secure environment for girls freed from servitude. Since its establishment, more than 400 girls have passed through its care.

'Friends of Mukti Ashram' worked directly with the Director of the Ashrams, Suman. Suman came to Ireland on a number of occasions to speak to students and staff in primary and secondary schools and in third-level colleges. She also met representatives of the Irish trade union movement and NGOs. The purpose of these visits was to highlight the injustices of child labour and to appeal for help and assistance in ridding the world of this scourge.

Since its establishment 'Friends of Mukti Ashram', as well as publicising the issue of child labour, has raised funds which have gone directly to support the work of Mukti and Balika Ashrams. Monies raised have been used to fund ongoing projects at the Ashrams including extensions and renovation work and the purchase of water tanks, beds, equipment etc.

In 2002 'Friends of Mukti Ashram'; changed its name to Aclaim (anti child labour initiative). The name change signalled a widening of the group's objectives. Whilst continuing the work of 'Friends of Mukti Ashram', Aclaim is now broadening its partnership base and supporting anti child labour projects and organisations throughout the world. Join with us as we aim to rid the world of the scourge of child labour.