Pope urges Catholics to defend human dignity, eliminate trafficking

Pope Francis has urged Catholics and all people of goodwill to do their part to combat the exploitation of vulnerable people by defending human dignity and eliminating human trafficking.

He made this call ahead of the 11th International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking.

The day usually celebrated on February 8, to commemorate the liturgical memorial of St. Josephine Bakhita, a Sudanese woman who fell victim to human trafficking as a child and then later became a nun.

“Trafficking is a complex, constantly evolving phenomenon, and is fuelled by wars, conflicts, famine and the consequences of climate change,” the Pope stated.

Pope Francis stated further that global responses to human trafficking must include a focus on united, global efforts, especially under the coordination of international organizations. He further invited those working to combat human trafficking to entrust their efforts to the intercession of St. Josephine Bakhita.

“Together,we can make a great effort and create the conditions for trafficking and exploitation to be banned and for respect for fundamental human rights to prevail, in fraternal recognition of our common humanity.”

As the Jubilee focuses the Church on the theme of hope, the Pope stated that the Church must also ask itself how it can nourish that hope for the millions of people who are trapped in modern slavery.

Pope Francis praised the work of many young people around the world who prove that anyone can stand on the side of victims and survivors. “With the help of God, we can avoid becoming accustomed to injustice and ward off the temptation to think that certain phenomenona cannot be eradicated.”

According to him, each person must work in their own way to oppose the economic and criminal mechanisms that profit from the suffering of others.

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“Where do we get new impetus to combat the trade in human organs and tissues, the sexual exploitation of children and girls, forced labour, including prostitution, drug and arms trafficking?” he asked.

According to the Pope, Christ provides the only true source of hope and strength for those who are victims of human trafficking and for those who seek to combat the scourge.

The Pope stated further that Jesus teaches the Church that listening and compassion are essential to helping human trafficking survivors to get back on their feet; noting that many of the most forceful opponents of trafficking are those who were once its victims.