World Day Against Human Trafficking calls for ‘accelerated action’ on saving child victims

The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons this year campaigns for a rapid response against child trafficking.

Observed annually on July 30, this initiative of the United Nations decries how children represent a significant proportion of human trafficking cases worldwide.

Data from the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) show that 1 in 3 victims of human trafficking is a child, and they are twice as likely to face violence during trafficking than adults.

Talitha Kum, an international organization against human trafficking, stands in solidarity with this campaign.

Composed of religious and lay people, this global network advocates for “a shift in the prevailing paradigm towards legal, social, and economic justice” for victims, survivors, and at-risk individuals.

Sr. Abby Avelino, Talitha Kum’s international coordinator, pointed out reports from the International Labor Organization (ILO) revealing that 152 million children aged five to 17 are victims of child labor.

She also explained how ongoing conflicts around the world, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East, have led to increased risks of child abuse.

“Children who are unaccompanied or separated from their families, including those evacuated from childcare facilities, are particularly vulnerable,” she said.

To address this alarming reality with urgency, Sr. Avelino called for a collective response involving citizens and the authorities.

“Strategic collaboration is needed, especially with law enforcement agencies that have expertise in combating trafficking in persons through technology and online monitoring platforms,” she stressed.

Furthermore, Sr. Avelino also urged the faithful to become “ambassadors of hope” and do their part in protecting children.

“We dream of a world without human trafficking. This is an appeal that must involve all of society, government, and Church leaders at all levels, as well as each and every one of us,” she said.

In January, Talitha Kum released the Walking in Dignity app to raise awareness of human trafficking and promote positive behavioural change.

Last year, they recorded 623,700 individuals taking part in their prevention efforts.