Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

How to change a life

Modern slavery is growing at an alarming rate yet true change begins when we help one person heal from their trauma. At Hagar we walk alongside each survivor with a one to one approach to restore dignity and build independence. This EOFY you can change a life for as little as $30—providing emergency support, safe care and hope for a brighter future.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

What’s in it for you this end of financial year?

As June 30 approaches, many of us are thinking about tax time. But giving to Hagar is more than a smart financial decision — it's a way to change lives. Your donation not only helps reduce your taxable income, it helps survivors of modern slavery access safety, healing, and long-term support. This EOFY, your generosity can be both impactful and practical. Here's how.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Why rescue isn't the end for survivors of human trafficking

Breaking the cycle of slavery and abuse starts long after freedom is won. Your EOFY gift to Hagar ensures survivors receive the compassionate, long-term care they need to heal fully—so that every rescue leads to a life of lasting hope and independence.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Joint Statement: The Urgent Need for an Australian Digital Duty of Care toProtect Children from Online Sexual Abuse

In a powerful joint statement, more than twenty leading child-protection and justice organisations are urging the next Australian Parliament to legislate a digital duty of care that compels technology companies to proactively prevent online sexual abuse of children. With 96 per cent of Australian voters backing this reform and reports of online child abuse climbing by 45 per cent in 2023–24, there has never been a more urgent moment to hold platforms to account and keep our kids safe.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Hagar International Appoints a new CEO

We are delighted to announce that Jules Frost will join Hagar International as our new CEO, effective 7 April 2025. 

Jules brings over two decades of experience in international development and humanitarian affairs, NGO leadership, and public and government advisory roles. Her career includes senior positions with World Vision, Medair, and the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) Alliance, where she led global programs, emergency responses, and strategic partnerships. She has also advised the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) and the Australian Civil-Military Centre (ACMC). 

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Why Supporting Children This Christmas Is More Important Than Ever

This Christmas, millions of vulnerable children are facing unimaginable hardships due to exploitation, modern slavery, and displacement. Global crises like COVID-19, conflict, and climate change have left more children in need of urgent protection than ever before. At Hagar, we provide safe accommodation, emotional support, medical care, and education to help these children heal and rebuild their lives.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

How You Can Support Women This International Women's Day

As we approach International Women's Day, it's important to reflect on the strides we've made towards gender equality and the vast challenges that still lie ahead. Here are 6 ways that you can support women this International Women’s Day.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

How Hagar is Transforming the Lives of Women

For three decades, Hagar has been a beacon of hope for women escaping violence, exploitation, and poverty. Focused on healing, recovery, and empowerment, Hagar provides crucial support, education, and employment opportunities, making a significant difference in the lives of women globally.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

January’s Highlights

As we step into a new year, Hagar continues its unwavering commitment to healing and empowerment across our global operations. January has been a month of significant achievements, marked by a series of training sessions and strategic meetings in Afghanistan, Cambodia, and Vietnam. These initiatives are pivotal in advancing our mission to support survivors of human trafficking, slavery, and abuse. Join us as we highlight the key events and successes of January, reflecting our collective efforts to create a safer, more equitable world.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

How Decreasing Gender-Based Violence is the Gateway to the End of Slavery

In today's society, gender-based violence remains a pressing issue that not only affects individuals directly but also serves as a catalyst for slavery. Gender-based violence creates an environment of fear and vulnerability, making individuals more susceptible to exploitation. Victims of such violence are often coerced into situations of slavery, where they face further dehumanisation and violence. Addressing gender-based violence is crucial in disrupting this cycle and preventing individuals from falling into slavery.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Addressing the Challenges Faced by Afghan Boys 

Afghanistan, a nation ravaged by conflict and political turmoil, faces an abundance of challenges that significantly impact its young male population. Today, we'll delve into the multifaceted adversities faced by these boys, encompassing displacement, educational struggles, vulnerability to modern slavery, and significant health risks.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Being Trauma-Informed in Cambodia

The landscape of trauma-informed care has long been explored in various settings worldwide, from institutional spaces to therapeutic environments, particularly in developed nations. Yet, an often-overlooked aspect is the implementation of trauma-informed education in resource-poor countries, specifically in Cambodia.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

How to Have an Ethical Christmas: Hagar’s Guide toMeaningful Celebrations

At Hagar, where we are dedicated to the fight against modern slavery, we believe in the power of ethical choices to create meaningful change. This Christmas, we know that you, too, can make a difference, starting with conscious celebrations that reflect compassion, sustainability and commitment to making a difference.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

So, You Watched The Sound Of Freedom. Now What? 

The Sound of Freedom movie is a 2023 released film based on a true story. It’s a powerful call to action to confront the harsh realities of human trafficking. As the credits roll, we have the opportunity to channel our shock, horror and sadness about the reality of child exploitation, and take tangible steps to make a difference in the world.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Rising Stronger: Hagar Afghanistan's Earthquake Response

On October 20, 2023, the Hagar team distributed 600 high-quality blankets and 1800 pieces of clothing, thoughtfully crafted by RLL clients. This generous contribution has reached 300 families in the earthquake-affected Zinda Jan district of Herat province. The impact of this distribution extended beyond immediate relief; it conveyed a message of hope, resilience, and solidarity.

Read More
Elise van Boxtel Elise van Boxtel

Case Study: Lessons Imparted from Psychological Violence on Mental Well-being

Psychological violence involves the use of abusive, deceptive, threatening, offensive, embarrassing, and obscene language. This form of violence affects individuals from diverse backgrounds, regardless of wealth, education, or income. Domestic violence can have multiple contributing factors, such as traditional beliefs, alcohol consumption, low levels of education, and unemployment, all of which can lead to socio-economic hardship.

Read More