Azad Shakti Abhiyan (ASA) is a survivor collective built by and for survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking. Created by individuals with lived experience in modern slavery, ASA is driven by a shared commitment to securing freedom for those still trapped in exploitation. Since its inception, ASA’s leadership has helped hundreds of survivors break free and join the movement to support others in their journey to liberation.
Today, more than 400 survivors are actively engaged as ASA network members. Representing districts in Uttar Pradesh—where slavery and trafficking remain prevalent—they carry out critical activities, including awareness campaigns, victim identification, reporting, rescue efforts, and rehabilitation support in their respective communities.
Capacity Building Through Training
Free the Slaves has been a supporter of ASA, providing ongoing training and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen their impact. In August 2024, Free the Slaves organized an in-person, three-day training for ASA members, equipping them with essential knowledge and tools to expand their advocacy work. Thirteen ASA members participated in the training, which was successfully completed and later documented in a report.
As part of the Community Liberation Initiative, Free the Slaves conducted a post-training assessment in November 2024, 90 days after the session. The assessment aimed to evaluate how participants had applied their learnings in the field. Through one-on-one interviews, members shared how they had integrated the training into their efforts to combat modern slavery.
Empowering Communities with Knowledge
Despite the three-month gap, participants were eager to discuss the impact of the training. Many reported that it had been transformative, particularly in helping them educate their communities on modern slavery and labor rights.
One of the key outcomes was the creation of a worker’s diary—an initiative that allows laborers to track essential details such as working hours, wages, and time off. This tool empowers workers to assert their rights and prevent exploitation.
“It was very helpful to learn about the rights of the labourers during the training. It helped us understand how vulnerable laborers are when they do not have knowledge about how to access their rights. With the information from the training, we helped the laborers associated with ASA, with a diary to track working hours, wages, and the leaves they are taking.” — Mr Brijesh Kumar (Convener ASA)
“The session on Indicators of Human Trafficking was incredibly insightful and valuable for my work with communities on the ground. It provided me with a deeper understanding of the key factors to look for in identifying victims of slavery, which has been essential in my role. Thanks to the training, I was able to recognize and identify a victim of trafficking and a victim of child labor. I’ve since referred both cases to the relevant authorities for further action. This training has truly empowered me to make a more impactful difference in the lives of those affected.” — Mr Manoj Pal (staff MSEMVS)
Strengthening Survivor Leadership
All participants agreed that the training enhanced their ability to generate awareness in their communities. With a deeper understanding of modern slavery and trafficking, they are now better equipped to lead more effective interventions. ASA members continue to expand their reach, ensuring that survivors are at the forefront of advocacy, prevention, and rescue efforts.
Free the Slaves remains committed to empowering survivor leaders like ASA members, ensuring they have the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to drive real and lasting change in the fight against modern slavery.
