Each year, July 30 is set aside as the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. We know that human trafficking and slavery occur in every country around the world and as Pope Francis reminds us “is a crime against humanity“.
Brigidine Sisters are committed to working in collaboration with others to bring an end to this abuse of human rights. Brigidines are involved in a number of different networks such as UNANIMA International, RENATE in Europe, ANZRATH in New Zealand, ACRATH in Australia and TRAC in the UK.
Aspects of the work of these networks include:
- raising awareness about human trafficking,
- advocating for the rights of trafficked people (particularly girls and women)
- supporting survivors of trafficking and various forms of modern day slavery and
- supporting young girls and women vulnerable to being forced to marry.
As we mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on 30 July this year, let us consider ways in which we can each use our voice, our networks and our resources to help eliminate human trafficking today.
Let us pray for those who are vulnerable to being trafficked because of poverty, family breakdown, displacement because of wars or violence, lack of education, employment or other opportunities for a life with dignity.
May we continue to work to overcome these inequalities in the world so that all “May have life and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)
