A21 and Compassion International Launch Joint Initiative to Combat Sexual Exploitation of Children

The two organizations will focus on equipping more than 2500 community changemakers from local churches and communities in Thailand

Colorado Springs, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - December 4, 2025) - A recent UNICEF study found that, during a 12-month period, an estimated 400,000 youth in Thailand have been victims of online sexual exploitation and abuse-a staggering 9 percent of children in the country (2021, UNICEF, Interpol, ECPAT). In response, A21 and Compassion International Thailand are launching a three-stage, multi-year initiative focused on combatting human trafficking and sexual exploitation of children and youth in Northern Thailand.

The collaboration will equip 2000 youth, 168 church leaders and 500 mentors from local churches and communities across the region with comprehensive knowledge, practical skills and prevention resources on exploitation and human trafficking. These changemakers will be prepared to serve as catalysts to lead a youth-driven movement toward community safety and transformation

"The sexual exploitation of children is one of the gravest injustices our world faces today. Every child deserves safety, dignity, and the opportunity to thrive," shares Phil Hyldgaard, Chief Operating Officer for A21. "We have witnessed firsthand the power of awareness in addressing vulnerability, the place where exploitation begins. For years, we have equipped at-risk communities with the knowledge to recognize warning signs, protect themselves and their families, and act before exploitation can take root. Through partnerships with organizations such as Compassion International, we are able to expand our collective reach and amplify impact, safeguarding more children and empowering communities to stand united against exploitation."

"No child should ever endure the trauma of exploitation," shares Sanya Ladaphongpattana, Director for Compassion International Thailand. "Child protection is at the heart of everything we do and it's why we collaborate with like-minded organizations such as A21. This partnership allows us to combine our shared expertise and local presence to build safer communities that protect children and help them thrive."

A21 and Compassion will partner with local stakeholders, including community leaders and government officials, as well as other NGOs, to maximize the impact of this project

In fact, A21, Compassion, and others recently collaborated on a conference for 107 partner churches in Chiang Mai, focused on enhancing church leaders' understanding of biblical justice, the role of the church in creating a safer society for children and youth, and protecting these vulnerable groups from human trafficking.