Emmaus around the World
Emmaus in the UK is part of the international Emmaus Movement, made up of 306 member groups working in 36 countries around the world. The work that the members do varies depending on the needs of the country that they work in, but all of the Groups share a commitment to “serve first those who suffer most”, as set out in the Universal Manifesto of the Emmaus Movement.
As part of an International Movement, we can learn from one another, share experiences and work together to support those in greatest need. Staff, Companions and Trustees in the UK regularly participate in exchanges, meetings and solidarity sales, where money is raised for Emmaus projects in poorer countries.
Emmaus in Europe
Emmaus is divided into four Regions; Africa, America, Asia and Europe. Our Region, Emmaus Europe, has member groups in 16 countries. Most European projects, like those in the UK, welcome socially excluded people and generate income to support themselves through the collection and sale of goods that would otherwise be thrown away. To find out more about Emmaus Europe, visit www.emmaus-europe.org.
Emmaus in the world
Emmaus Groups in Africa traditionally focus their actions mainly on young people, women, and in rural areas. Activities include farming, market gardening and livestock rearing as well as secondhand shops. Groups also work to eliminate illiteracy, promote human rights and combat child trafficking. Microcredit is regularly used to enable low-income communities to find the financial resources required to create their own jobs.
The American Emmaus groups, mostly located in South America, earn a living mainly through the collection and sale of second-hand goods. Other activities include shipbuilding, making handicrafts or woodwork etc. Social projects are mainly aimed at children, young people, and the most disadvantaged families.
In Asia the activities of the Emmaus groups vary considerably from country to country. In South Korea, the work is focused with people with mental disabilities and homeless people. In India the emphasis is on the defence of the rights of women, children and Dalits, as well as on training them. Organic farming plays an important role. In Bangladesh Emmaus has created jobs for women with no income and a school for their children thanks to the manufacture and sale of fair-trade textile products. In Indonesia projects are particularly carried out for children and the sick, through a drop-in centre, a clinic and training. The Lebanese Emmaus group has the special feature of being an alternative bank which grants loans for micro-projects.
To find out more about Emmaus projects, visit www.emmaus-international.org.
