Faith Driven Career Change Begins
Gary Haugen's journey from a U.S. Department of Justice attorney to the founder of the International Justice Mission (IJM) is a remarkable testament to the power of faith-driven action. Initially focused on domestic legal issues, Haugen's career took a transformative turn when he led the United Nations' investigation into the Rwandan genocide in 1994. Witnessing the brutal violence and the systemic failure to protect the vulnerable, Haugen realized that humanitarian aid alone could not address the pervasive violence against impoverished populations.
God's Calling to Justice Work
Inspired by his Christian faith, Haugen saw the need for a new kind of human rights organization that would address violent oppression through legal assistance and advocacy. With a vision rooted in love and justice, he founded IJM in 1997, leaving behind his position at the Department of Justice. Haugen was motivated by the belief that the power to do the work of justice comes from God, and he desired to work in a community of prayer rather than within traditional institutions like the UN.
Building Global Justice Ministry
Under Haugen's leadership, IJM has grown into a global organization with nearly 600 professionals working to rescue victims of violence, bring criminals to justice, and strengthen local justice systems. The impact of IJM has been profound, with operations in nearly 20 communities worldwide and significant reductions in violence and slavery in several jurisdictions. Notably, their efforts in Cebu, Philippines, led to a 79 percent decrease in the availability of children for prostitution over four years.
Faith and Justice Transform Lives
Haugen emphasizes the role of the Church in mobilizing efforts to protect the vulnerable and has witnessed a transformation within the Christian community, which now views justice as a core component of faith. As Haugen articulates, "The fruit of faith is love, and for me, the struggle for human rights is done out of love." Through IJM, Haugen's life and work demonstrate how faith and justice can intersect to bring about meaningful change.