Asia Justice and Rights (AJAR)

Support us in our efforts to reunite Timor-Leste’s ’Stolen Children’ with their families, after decades of separation.  Together, we can build awareness and support for these families, torn apart by conflict. Currently in Indonesia, thousands of children from Timor-Leste (who are now adults) have not seen their families for about 40 years, due to the conflict in Timor-Leste from 1975-1999. Parents in Timor-Leste are still looking for their children in Indonesia. These children are often referred to as "Labarik Lakon," which means "Lost Child" in Tetun, Timor-Leste’s national language. Special efforts should be taken to help reunite them with their families in Timor-Leste The Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Timor-Leste (CAVR) stated that Timorese children forcibly transferred to Indonesia numbered in the thousands, which “demonstrates the view that by taking control of Timor-Leste, Indonesia has unlimited power over children.

Senoara, a Rohingya facilitator from Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, arrived with her family in October 2017 after fleeing the violence in Myanmar that left their home destroyed. Through AJAR’s workshops, she gained a deeper understanding of rights and justice, particularly emphasizing the importance of non-discrimination for the Rohingya people’s future. Joining AJAR as a participant and later a volunteer in 2019 marked a turning point for Senoara. She found her voice and gained the confidence to share her story publicly. This personal growth exemplifies AJAR’s commitment to empowering and strengthening victims through education, skills development, and support throughout their healing journey. Senoara sees herself and other Rohingya women not only transforming their own lives but also contributing positively to their communities, demonstrating the lasting impact of AJAR’s work: “Participating in AJAR’s workshops has been enlightening for me, especially understanding rights and justice. Non-discrimination holds significant importance to me: unless Myanmar embraces this principle, we Rohingyas will be like floating flowers, unable to put down roots.” Senoara and her friends’ quiltworks have been featured in a roving exhibition that began in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and has since traveled to Bangkok, Mae Sot, and Chiang Mai in Thailand. The exhibition, aimed at raising awareness about the Rohingya crisis in the Asia-Pacific region, will continue its journey to Bali and Jakarta, Indonesia this year. AJAR's work with the Rohingya in Bangladesh has fostered trust and established a safe learning environment within the broader NGO community through active engagement at both camp and district levels, utilizing a network of trained volunteers. They have amplified local knowledge, context, and aspirations through publications, artwork, events, and documentaries, enabling survivors to voice their own concerns. AJAR has facilitated support for Rohingya survivors, bridging ethnic groups within camps and fostering connections between Bangladeshi and Rohingya youth. They have also cultivated a skilled trauma-healing team, empowering women survivors through ongoing training and livelihood initiatives. Your kindness gives hope to those who need it most. We’re deeply grateful for your commitment to our cause, and we hope you’ll continue to stand with us as we strive for justice and healing. Sign up with your email address here  for regular updates on human rights across Asia-Pacific and ways to take action and make a difference. Find out more, here: asia-ajar.org