Ending Clergy Abuse (ECA) is a global coalition of survivors, human rights activists, legal experts, and advocates from over 25 countries across five continents. United by a shared commitment to justice, ECA works tirelessly to end the sexual abuse of children and vulnerable individuals by clergy members and to dismantle the systemic cover-ups that have perpetuated such abuse within religious institutions.
Our Mission
ECA’s mission is to compel the Roman Catholic Church—and all religious institutions—to end clergy abuse, particularly the sexual abuse of minors, to protect children, and to seek justice for victims. We demand the elimination of structural mechanisms within the Church that have allowed abuse to persist and remain concealed.
Our Vision
Our vision aligns with the principles outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), to which the Vatican is a signatory. We advocate for a world where every child can grow up free from abuse, and where survivors are heard, believed, and supported. ECA is not opposed to the institutional Church itself but seeks to eradicate the abusive attitudes and practices that have placed the Church above the dignity and rights of children.
Our History
ECA was founded in August 2017, inspired by the late Barbara Blaine, a pioneering advocate for survivors of clergy abuse.
She envisioned a global network of activists united in confronting the Vatican and demanding accountability.
This vision materialized as The Accountability Project (TAP), which evolved into ECA.
ùSince then, ECA has organized international actions, including press conferences and advocacy campaigns, to amplify the voices of survivors and push for systemic change.
Our Actions
Accountability
We hold the Roman Catholic Church accountable by providing data, mobilizing public opinion, and pursuing judicial and legislative actions to end clerical abuse and deliver justice to victims.
Support and Empowerment
We support and empower survivors by assisting them in organizing and connecting with local or global organizations to find help and demand justice.
Research and Collaboration
We collaborate with organizations that investigate and research sexual clerical abuse and cover-ups, sharing information and strategies to combat abuse effectively.
Our Global Network
ECA’s strength lies in its diverse and dedicated global network.
Our members include survivors and advocates from countries such as Germany, Poland, Belgium, the United States, Canada, Argentina, and many others.
We work in solidarity with local organizations, such as Rete L’ABUSO in Italy, to address the unique challenges faced by survivors in different regions.
Our Commitment
Zero Tolerance
Advocating for a universal “Zero Tolerance” policy within the Church, mandating the permanent removal of clergy found guilty of abusing a child or vulnerable adult, as well as any bishop who has concealed such abuse.
Transparency
Demanding transparency in the handling of abuse cases and the release of all relevant documents and information.
Survivor-Centered Approach
Ensuring that survivors are at the center of all our efforts, respecting their experiences, and amplifying their voices.
We believe that by working together -survivors, advocates, and allies – we can bring about meaningful change and create a safer, more just world for all.
Your support creates change.
Every donation strengthens our fight to end clergy abuse worldwide.
With your help, we can amplify survivors’ voices, push for legal reform, and hold institutions accountable.