On 8 February, the feast day of Saint Josephine Bakhita, the universal Catholic Church marked a poignant reminder of the global fight against human trafficking.
As the Patron Saint of victims of human trafficking, Saint Bakhita’s legacy as a former victim of this grave injustice serves as an inspiration to millions around the world. This day highlights the plight of an estimated 50 million victims currently trapped in modern slavery, a crisis that demands urgent global attention and action.
Human trafficking, which thrives in the shadows, remains one of the most pervasive and destructive crimes of our time. With over 50 million people worldwide believed to be living in modern slavery the need to combat this crime is more urgent than ever.
To address this, the Santa Marta Group, a coalition of law enforcement, civil society, and business leaders, has been leading the charge for systemic change. This international initiative brings together various sectors of society to collaborate and fight human trafficking, and its work is instrumental in pushing for policies that prioritise the protection of vulnerable people.
Pope Francis, who has been an outspoken advocate for the fight against human trafficking, used the occasion of Saint Josephine Bakhita’s feast day to call on people of all faiths to join in the effort to end this crime. In his message, he reminded the faithful that Christ provides hope and strength for victims and those fighting for their freedom. He urged people to ask themselves how they can help combat the exploitation of human beings, especially in areas like forced labour, sexual exploitation, and the trafficking of organs.
Pope Francis also expressed his admiration for the growing number of young people globally who are actively standing up for the victims of trafficking. He acknowledged that while the fight against this complex and evolving issue is daunting, with God’s help, the world can
confront the economic and criminal networks that profit from human suffering.
As we remember Saint Bakhita’s courageous journey from slavery to sainthood, let her example be a beacon of hope for those trapped in modern slavery and a call to action for all. Through compassion, awareness, and united efforts, we can make strides toward ending human trafficking and ensuring respect for human dignity and rights for all.
To find out more information about the Santa Marta group, please click here
Source Vatican News and Santa Marta Group websites
Caption Let the Oppressed Go Free by Tim Schmalz graphically portrays the reality of human trafficking and the forced migration of people. On display in Saint Patrick’s Pontifical University in 2023.
