Talitha Kum Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Victims of Human Trafficking
On July 30, Talitha Kum International Kenya joined the global community in marking the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. This year’s theme, “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking,” highlights the critical need to protect children from trafficking and exploitation.
Sister Abby Avelino, International Coordinator of Talitha Kum, emphasized the urgency of protecting vulnerable groups, especially children and women, from human trafficking. She shared the harrowing story of Karim, an 11-year-old in Lebanon, who endures brutal working conditions and abuse. His story mirrors the suffering of millions of children worldwide. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), 152 million children are victims of child labour, and one in three trafficking victims is a child.
Conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and the Middle East, exacerbate these vulnerabilities, with unaccompanied children at heightened risk. The Global Slavery Index 2023 also identifies “orphanage trafficking,” where children are recruited into residential care institutions for profit and exploitation. Additionally, traffickers increasingly use technology to exploit children online.
Talitha Kum advocates for strategic collaboration with law enforcement to combat trafficking through technology and online monitoring. Pope Francis urges us to listen to the cries of those suffering and take action against exploitation.
Talitha Kum’s international network, comprising religious and lay people, organizes awareness campaigns and preventive measures against human trafficking. Their efforts include education, media campaigns, and the “Walking in Dignity” app, mobilizing communities to join the fight against trafficking.
As we commemorate the 15th anniversary of Talitha Kum, we reaffirm our commitment to systemic change, holistic survivor-centered approaches, and expanded collaboration. We call on society, government, and church leaders to protect the most vulnerable, especially children, and support trafficking victims. Together, we can transform lives and create a world free from human trafficking.
