ASB: More than 140 years of solidarity, support, and humanitarian action
For more than 140 years, Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) has been dedicated to supporting people in need through humanitarian assistance, social services, emergency response, civil protection, and inclusive development initiatives. What began as a volunteer-driven movement has grown into one of Germany’s largest humanitarian and welfare organizations, with activities implemented in more than 30 countries worldwide.
Today, ASB brings together more than 1.5 million members and supporters around the world, united by the values of solidarity, dignity, equal opportunities, and social responsibility. Through its extensive international network, ASB works with local communities, institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners to provide long-term support and sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations.
ASB’s work covers a wide range of areas, including humanitarian aid, disaster risk reduction and emergency response, social inclusion, support for persons with disabilities, employment and economic empowerment programmes, migration and reintegration support, healthcare, elderly care, youth engagement, and community development initiatives.
A particularly important role within the region is carried out by ASB South East Europe (ASB SEE), which coordinates and implements programmes across the Western Balkans and South East Europe. Through regional cooperation and strong local partnerships, ASB SEE contributes to building more inclusive, resilient, and socially responsible communities.
Over the years, ASB SEE has implemented numerous regional and local projects focused on supporting vulnerable groups, strengthening social services, promoting employment opportunities, empowering persons with disabilities, supporting returnees and migrants, and improving cooperation between civil society organizations, institutions, and local governments.
The organization works closely with municipalities, ministries, employment institutions, educational institutions, disability organizations, and local communities in order to create sustainable and community-based solutions tailored to local needs.
One of the key strengths of ASB SEE lies in its ability to connect regional knowledge and international experience with direct field presence and practical local action. Through this approach, ASB SEE not only provides immediate support where needed, but also contributes to long-term social inclusion, policy development, and strengthening local capacities.
ASB SEE also plays an important role in promoting regional cooperation across the Western Balkans by creating platforms for dialogue, exchange of experiences, joint advocacy initiatives, and partnerships aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable groups throughout the region.
From emergency assistance and humanitarian response to inclusive employment programmes and community development projects, ASB and ASB SEE continue to demonstrate that meaningful impact is created through trust, cooperation, professionalism, and long-term commitment to the communities they support.
