Background

ERIK Nilsson was born in 1929 in the region of Småland, Sweden. He was suffering from haemophilia and spent extended periods of his life in hospital. But instead of feeling pity for himself, he started sending greetings and small gifts to encourage other sick children. He collected postal addresses by listening to a radio programme where letters from children were read out. By 1946, when Eriks was seventeen years old, his charity work was established. A couple of years later, Eriks was interviewed in this weekly radio programme and his work became known to the public. Gifts started to pour in from people around the country of Sweden. Erik, known as Uncle Erik, died in 1966 only 37 years old. But the work he started continues and today thousands of vulnerable children and families around the world are given an opportunity for education and livelihood and are able to shape their own future.

Value

- All human beings have been created by God with equal and inalienable value.

- All human beings are entitled to a life in dignity. Our world has been created by God in order for man to use but not to misuse.

- Children are vulnerable and are entitled to our specific attention and protection.

Mission

To reduce poverty and vulnerability by promoting the rights of the child. ERIKS is a child rights organization. Based on the Convention on the Rights of the Child, we fight for children living in poverty and vulnerability and their chances of a better life, now and in the future.

Vision

A better world where the dreams of children come true. Using the dreams of children as a driving force, ERIKS wants to be part of making the world a better place. Through interventions in the sectors of education, health and protection, we give children and young people around the world opportunity to dream about the future. We want every child to be seen and be taken seriously.

Staff