08 March 2010
When England cricketers paid a visit to a hospital in Dhaka, they proved an inspiration to patients - at the same time as turning a spotlight on one of Bangladesh's most shocking crimes.
At the Acid Survivors Foundation hospital the team saw with their own eyes the consequences of acid-throwing, a crime that is predominantly targeted at women. Bangladesh has a troubling history of acid-throwing, with attacks triggered by anything from dowry-related disputes to squabbles over land.
Victims often suffer serious burns that can lead to life-long scarring and disfigurement. Expensive reconstructive surgery may be required – which the Acid Survivors Foundation is able to provide partly as a result of support from UKaid.
Nurjahan, a student of Dhaka's North South University, was around to meet the cricketers. She was left badly scarred after an acid attack. "It's people like this who can inspire and encourage us to keep on believing in our abilities," she said as she chatted to England and Durham all-rounder Paul Collingwood.
Words of hope
For Haina, an open university student who was attacked by her neighbour after an argument, the team's visit should go some way towards raising awareness of acid-related violence. Cricket is hugely popular throughout Bangladesh, and Haina feels that well-known faces could be instrumental in laying the ground for a countrywide stand on the issue.
Visits like this also provide an immediate morale boost to survivors. "When people of this stature come, talk to us, share our stories and give us words of hope, we feel that we are not forgotten," says Haina.
The team also met five-year-old Durjoy, who was fed acid by his aunt and uncle in an attempt to gain a property inheritance for their own children. Durjoy suffered dreadful burns to his mouth and internal organs, necessitating many delicate operations.
"Acid burns create a sense of isolation in all individuals," said Durjoy's mother. "No matter how determined the victim, he or she needs inspiration from people like this. Victims need to know that, despite their scars, they are able to lead a normal life."
Facts and stats
- The Acid Survivors Foundation (ASF) is also supported by the Acid Survivors Trust International, a UK charity whose patron is HRH Princess Anne. The Trust has established foundations in six other countries, based on the Bangladesh model.
- Thanks to UKaid and support from other partners, the ASF has treated some 2,500 victims since 1999, a quarter of whom are children. The incidence of attacks has declined significantly, from about 500 in 2002 to 150 in 2009.