Cambodia unites for National Interfaith Day to combat Human Trafficking in the Digital Era

The Catholic Church joined forces with other religious communities on August 20, 2024, to observe the National Interfaith Day Against Trafficking in Person, under the theme “Moral Education Through Religions to Prevent Trafficking in Person in the Digital Era.”

Held at the Chroy Changvar International Convention and Exhibition Center, the event featured prayers and messages from religious leaders, drawing over 2,000 participants, including local authorities, government officials, students, and NGOs.

Sar Sokha, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, and Chairman of the National Commission for Combating Human Trafficking, emphasized Cambodia’s pride in fostering religious harmony and unity in the fight against human trafficking, a crime exacerbated by the digital age.

“Science without virtue can bring disaster,” he said, warning that in the absence of moral guidance, technological advancements can lead to even more destructive forms of exploitation.

He further stressed the need for swift and comprehensive moral education by religious leaders, urging them to instill virtues that can protect individuals from exploitation, beginning from childhood and continuing throughout life.

Sokha highlighted how religious teachings could play a critical role in promoting dignity, respect for human values, and resilience against deceptive practices.

The Deputy Prime Minister’s remarks also acknowledged the harsh realities faced by many Cambodians seeking work, noting that some end up disabled, separated from their families, or trapped in forced labor and human trafficking.

In response, the Cambodian government prioritizes timely victim rescue, prosecution of perpetrators, shutting down illegal operations, and investigating financial crimes linked to trafficking.

Representing the Catholic Church, Fr. Will Conquer, Priest Assistant in the Kampong Som and Koh Kong Pastoral District, underscored the importance of compassion in addressing human trafficking.

He expressed gratitude to Christian communities, Caritas, and volunteers for their ongoing partnership with the government.

“Religion should be a refuge, offering protection and care without judgment,” Fr. Conquer said, stressing the need for welcoming victims with love and upholding their human rights.

Rath Chantha, Head of Child Scouts at the Phnom Penh Vicariate Office for Children, Adults, and Youth, noted the government’s proactive measures through educational workshops aimed at preventing human trafficking.

He called on the Church to intensify outreach efforts, particularly to young people, to equip them with the knowledge and self-defense tools needed to avoid becoming victims.

This year marked the eighth observance of the National Interfaith Day Against Human Trafficking, an initiative that began in 2017 under the joint efforts of the National Commission Against Trafficking, the Ministry of Religions and Cults, and Caritas Cambodia.

The event continues to unite Cambodia’s three major religious communities in their shared mission to end human trafficking.