For over three decades, Amihan Abueva has stood at the forefront of child rights advocacy, championing the protection and empowerment of children across Asia and beyond. As the Regional Executive Director of Child Rights Coalition Asia (CRC Asia), she has tirelessly worked to build coalitions, strengthen legal frameworks, and ensure that children’s voices are heard in the fight against violence, exploitation, and trafficking.
A Lifelong Advocate for Child Rights
Amihan’s commitment to child rights began early in her career, and her dedication has only grown stronger over the years. With an unwavering passion for protecting children, she has worked extensively to mainstream child protection issues and enhance the role of NGOs in addressing them. Her efforts have significantly contributed to shaping national and international policies that safeguard children from all forms of violence, particularly human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
One of Amihan’s most significant contributions is her advocacy for child participation in governance and human rights. She has been instrumental in promoting children as active citizens and defenders of their rights, fostering environments where young people are empowered to speak out against injustices that affect them. Her work underscores the importance of recognizing children not just as beneficiaries of rights but as active agents of change.
Leading Regional and International Efforts
Since 2015, Amihan has led CRC Asia, a regional network of organizations dedicated to promoting child rights and human rights across Asia. Prior to this, she served as the Regional Coordinator of Asia Against Child Trafficking (Asia ACTs) from 2001 to 2012, where she played a key role in advancing the rights of children on the move and those who had been trafficked.
Her leadership extends beyond regional networks. She has played an integral role in ECPAT International, a global network dedicated to ending child prostitution, child pornography, and trafficking. Serving as the Executive Secretary from 1995 to 1997, and later as Project Director of the Young People’s Participation Project (1997-2000), she worked to create safer spaces for children worldwide. From 2005 to 2008, she served as President of ECPAT International and continues her involvement as the current president of ECPAT Philippines.
Recognized for Her Impact
Amihan’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2008, she became the first recipient of the Wilberforce Leadership Award, presented by Free the Slaves, a U.S.-based organization dedicated to ending modern slavery. This prestigious award recognized her ability to mobilize institutions, governments, and communities to take action against human trafficking.
More recently, in 2023, Amihan was honored with the Democracy and Human Rights Award from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen. This award acknowledges her relentless fight against child trafficking, sexual exploitation, and violence, reaffirming her vital role in advancing democracy and human rights in Asia.
A Legacy of Hope and Action
Amihan Abueva’s journey is one of unwavering commitment and fearless advocacy. Through her leadership, thousands of children have been protected, empowered, and given a voice in shaping their futures. Her legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations of child rights advocates, reminding the world that protecting children is not just a duty—it is a moral imperative.
As she continues her mission, one thing remains certain: Amihan Abueva’s impact will be felt for generations to come, ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, has the right to safety, dignity, and a future free from violence.