Ending Trafficking Begins with us. Das Ende des Menschenhandels beginnt mit uns. Terminarea traficului incepe cu noi.Dhënia fund e Trafikimit Fillon me NE. Az emberkereskedelem vége velünk kezdődik! It-tmiem tat-traffikar uman jibda minna stess. Ukončenie obchodovania začína od nás. Крајот на Трговијата започнува со нас. Terminar com o tráfico começa por nós. Fine tratta comincia da Noi. Oprirea traficului de persoane începe cu noi. Położenie kresu handlowi ludźmi zaczyna się od nas. Het einde van mensenhandel begint bij ons. Mettre fin à la Traite : à nous d’abord de nous y mettre. Konec trgovanja z nami. Припинення торгівлі людьми починається з нас. Kova prieš prekybą žmonėmis prasideda nuo mūsų. Acabar con el tráfico humano empieza con NOSOTROS. At gøre ende på menneskehandel begynder hos os. Cilēku tirdzniecības beigas sākas ar mums. KONEC OBCHODOVÁNÍ S LIDMI ZAČÍNÁ NÁMI! KRAJ TRGOVANJA POČINJE S NAMA! PRESTANAK TRGOVANJA LJUDIMA ZAPOČINJE S NAMA! Краят на трафика на хора, започва с нас
As part of the liturgical commemoration of St. Bakhita and the International Day of Awareness and Prayer for Victims of Human Trafficking, RENATE’s membership partners, CARITAS Slovakia, participated in a series of meaningful activities to honor her legacy and advocate against human trafficking. On this special occasion, a Holy Mass was celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Martin in Bratislava. At the conclusion of the Mass, attendees received a blessing with the relic of St. Bakhita, a moment of profound spiritual significance.
Additionally, a prayer segment was broadcast on Radio Lumen, allowing a wider audience to join in prayer and reflection. From January 31st to February 7th, a Novena to St. Bakhita was aired daily on the same station, fostering a deepened devotion and raising awareness of the ongoing issue of human trafficking. In their continued efforts to educate and engage communities, CARITAS Slovakia also distributed a specially designed calendar throughout January. This calendar served as both a tribute to St. Bakhita and a tool for increasing awareness about human trafficking, encouraging individuals to remain vigilant and proactive in combating this global issue.
Through these initiatives, CARITAS Slovakia strives to honor the spirit of St. Bakhita, support victims of trafficking, and work towards a world free from exploitation and injustice. Congratulations to all involved!
APT Ireland has initiated a nationwide awareness campaign aimed at reaching victims of human trafficking (HT) through key public spaces. Recognizing that over 80% of trafficking victims will seek medical attention from a healthcare professional within their first year of exploitation, APT Ireland is prioritizing the distribution of awareness posters in healthcare settings across the country.
This campaign is an ongoing effort to ensure that vital information reaches those who need it most. In addition to healthcare facilities, the posters will be displayed in churches, police stations, and universities, maximizing visibility in places where victims or those who can support them may encounter the message.
APT Ireland is also calling upon congregations and communities to assist in spreading awareness. While the campaign is launching now, it is not intended to have an endpoint; rather, it will be a sustained effort to educate, inform, and provide pathways to safety for those affected by trafficking.
St. Josephine Bakhita Day, commemorated annually on February 8th, continues to serve as a profound reminder of the ongoing fight against human trafficking. Across Ireland and beyond, numerous initiatives took place this year, bringing together communities, organizations, and individuals dedicated to justice, awareness, and action. Among the many events that unfolded, a standout gathering was organised by the National Justice and Peace Network (NJPN) in the UK, coordinated by Brian O’Toole (RENATE Member and country representative for Ireland), who also represents the Presentation Sisters in the UK.
Throwing Open the Doors to Freedom: A Resounding Success
What began as a modest initiative—initially envisioned to draw an audience of 40 to 50 people—quickly transformed into an extraordinary gathering. The event, titled ‘Throwing Open the Doors to Freedom from Trafficking and Exploitation’, far surpassed expectations. With over 255 registrants and 140 active participants on the night, it became a powerful forum for education, reflection, and action.
The event featured three key speakers: Sr. Imelda Poole, a leading advocate against human trafficking, Kevin Hyland, the UK’s first Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, and RENATE’s Brian O’Toole. With a diverse audience—many of whom were unfamiliar with the issue of modern slavery—the speakers took time to illuminate the realities of human trafficking by sharing the story of St. Bakhita. To enhance this narrative, they incorporated Let the Oppressed Go Free, a striking visual representation of the issue by artist Timothy Schmalz.
Throughout the session, participants were captivated by the discussion, the depth of insight offered by the speakers, and the urgent call to action. A palpable sense of St. Bakhita’s presence filled the space, making for a deeply moving experience.
Sr. Imelda Poole summed up the sentiment of the evening beautifully: “If we just do the ordinary things well, extraordinary change can happen.”
We invite you watch and share the recording with friends, family, and your communities! Access the recording here.
A Prayer for the End of Human Trafficking through the Intercession of St. Josephine Bakhita
This prayer was written by Brian O’Toole specifically for the event.
Father in heaven, May the faith you have given us in your Son, Jesus Christ, move us to defend the dignity of every human lifeand reawaken in us the blessed hope of a world free from oppression and slavery.
As you once led your servant, St. Josephine Bakhita, from the darkness of captivity to the light of faith, may your grace transform us into tireless defenders of justice. May we be bold in speaking for those who have no voice, compassionate in healing the wounds of the oppressed, and unwavering in our commitment to end human trafficking in all its forms.
May the seeds of your Gospel take root in the hearts of traffickers, bringing conversion where there is cruelty, mercy where there is greed, and repentance where there is exploitation. May those who suffer in slavery todayfind in your love the courage to hope,the strength to endure,and the freedom that is their birthright as children of God.
May the grace of the Jubilee inspire in us, Pilgrims of Hope, a yearning for a world where no one is bought or sold, where every person is cherished as your beloved creation. Through the prayers of St. Josephine Bakhita,may joy, peace, and justice be sown across the earth,until that day when all chains are broken,all wounds are healed,and your glory shines eternally.
To you, our God, eternally blessed,be glory and praise forever.
Amen.
A Unified Effort for Justice: The extraordinary response to this event is a testament to the growing commitment to eradicating human trafficking. It was a night of learning, reflection, and most importantly, action—a reminder that the fight for freedom is not just a cause for a single day but an ongoing mission that calls each of us to participate.
As we move forward, the challenge remains: to keep the conversation alive, to educate those around us, and to take meaningful steps toward justice. St. Bakhita’s legacy is one of strength and survival, and through initiatives like these, her story continues to inspire and mobilize change.
On February 8, 2025, we mark the 11th International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking (IDPAAHT), an initiative led by Talitha Kum. This annual observance is an opportunity for individuals and communities worldwide to come together in prayer, reflection, and action against the crime of human trafficking.
Why February 8?
This day is dedicated to St. Josephine Bakhita, the patron saint of human trafficking survivors. Born in Sudan, she was kidnapped as a child, enslaved, and later found freedom in Italy, where she became a nun. Her story of resilience and faith has become a symbol of hope and the fight against modern slavery. On her feast day, we remember all those affected by human trafficking and renew our commitment to justice and dignity for all.
2025 Theme: “Ambassadors of Hope: Together Against Human Trafficking”
This year’s theme highlights the power of collective action and solidarity. By standing together—across faiths, cultures, and communities—we become Ambassadors of Hope, working to prevent exploitation, support survivors, and advocate for systemic change.
Join the Global Online Marathon of Prayer
A key event of this year’s observance is the Online Marathon of Prayer, organized by Talitha Kum. This global pilgrimage will unite participants in continuous prayer across continents and time zones.
The marathon will feature prayers, reflections, and testimonies from survivors, faith leaders, and activists worldwide. It will be live-streamed in multiple languages, ensuring that people from all backgrounds can participate.
How You Can Get Involved
Join the Online Marathon of Prayer and stand in spiritual solidarity with survivors.
Organize a local prayer gathering to raise awareness in your community.
Educate yourself and others about the realities of human trafficking and ways to take action.
This day is a powerful reminder that hope, prayer, and action can bring about real change. We invite you to take part in this global movement and help create a world free from exploitation.
Let us unite as Ambassadors of Hope in the fight against human trafficking!
In January 2025, Sister Viktorija of the Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross shared her remarkable journey in combating human trafficking (HT) with various communities across Croatia. Her dedication to raising awareness, fostering prevention, and advocating for victims continues to inspire many.
A Special Presentation to the Candidates and Novices
On 13 January 2025, Sister Viktorija was invited by the Sister Formator to deliver a presentation on human trafficking at the Provincial House of her Congregation in the Croatian Province. This session was attended by the youngest members of the congregation, including candidates and novices aged 20 to 25.
Reflecting on her journey since 2007, Sister Viktorija recounted her initial involvement in the fight against trafficking and highlighted her collaboration with superiors on national, provincial, and international levels. She also shared her experiences working with the Archbishop and conducting talks in over 50 parishes within the Archdiocese of eastern Croatia. Unlike her sometimes shorter presentations, this session was uniquely engaging, as the Formator allowed ample time for discussions in the warm and inquisitive atmosphere created by the young participants.
This presentation was particularly meaningful as it marked the culmination of Sister Viktorija’s efforts in organizing a two-and-a-half-hour HT awareness program for more than 300 Sisters of the Croatian Province. This January, her focus shifted to the youngest members of the congregation, who had joined the Convent in the past three to four years.
A Gathering with Franciscan Youth in Vinkovci
On 19 January 2025, Sister Viktorija connected with members of Franciscan Youth in Vinkovci. Her talk on human trafficking was attended by young people associated with the Franciscan convent. Following the discussion, the group united in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament to honor and remember the victims of trafficking.
Additionally, plans were made to extend these conversations to the broader community. During the first week of February, leading up to the Feast of Saint Bakhita, Sister Viktorija will deliver talks on HT to the faithful gathering in the Franciscan church in Vinkovci.
Preventive Workshops for Students in Gundinci
Sister Viktorija’s outreach continued on 6 February 2025, when she was invited by a religion teacher to visit a school in the village of Gundinci. She conducted two workshops aimed at preventive education on human trafficking, engaging 37 students in meaningful discussions. These sessions underscore the importance of early awareness and education in the fight against this global issue.
A Podcast with the Evangelisation Community
Currently, Sister Viktorija is collaborating with the Evangelisation Community of Vinkovci to produce a podcast on human trafficking. This initiative aims to further educate and inspire listeners to take action against trafficking. The podcast is expected to be completed before 8 February 2025.
Looking Ahead
Sister Viktorija’s tireless efforts to combat human trafficking through education, prayer, and advocacy remain a testament to her commitment and compassion. Her journey continues to touch lives and inspire hope, bringing light to a critical global issue. We are deeply grateful to her for her unwavering dedication to the fight against human trafficking.
In January, Sr. Imelda Poole MBE delivered a thought-provoking talk at Corpus Christi Church in Wokingham, addressing the critical issue of modern slavery and supporting victims of trafficking. Drawing from her extensive experience, Sr. Imelda highlighted global efforts to combat trafficking, the impact of technology, and practical steps individuals can take to make a difference.
The evening concluded with a prayer of hope and a lively Q&A session, reflecting the community’s commitment to tackling this global crisis.
On December 19th, the spirit of Christmas filled the air as groups gathered excitedly at the entrance of the Amaranta Foundation Centre in Madrid. Women with children greeted each other warmly, their joy and excitement palpable as they reconnected after a long time apart. The Adoratrices sisters, as always, extended a heartfelt welcome, with hugs, laughter, and shouts of happiness echoing through the space.
Inside, a beautifully decorated Christmas panel stood welcomed all the invited guests, symbolizing the celebration and the shared journey of those present. The event brought together women currently residing in the house, apartments, or other projects of Amaranta Foundation, along with the Adoratrices sisters, volunteers, and, most notably, women who had been part of the program in the past and had since rebuilt their lives. These women proudly introduced their children and shared updates about their current activities, creating an atmosphere of pride and mutual encouragement.
Figure 1- The Adorers novices with their novice mistress
A Shared Journey of Transformation
The annual Christmas gathering is more than just a festive occasion; it is a celebration of the transformative journey from victimhood to survivorship. The Adoratrices sisters extend invitations to those who have supported and accompanied these women on their path to healing and empowerment. This includes professionals, volunteers, and other collaborators who work tirelessly toward creating a just world filled with opportunities for all.
As everyone moved to the hall prepared for the occasion, the sight was heartwarming: in the middle a long table laden with delicious food, set up by young volunteers from a nearby school, stretched the length of the room. The atmosphere was one of joy and togetherness. Before diving into the feast, the Novitiate community of the Adorers sisters led a prayer, expressing gratitude for the past year and preparing hearts for the true spirit of Christmas. The prayer was also a moment to honour the resilience of the women whose courage to rewrite their stories inspires everyone involved.
Moments of Joy and Reflection
The children added a delightful chaos to the event, their laughter and playful antics filling the room as they explored the long tables and sampled their favourite treats. Their uninhibited joy was a reminder of the innocence and hope that Christmas embodies. Meanwhile, the women, volunteers, sisters and professional seated and standing moving from group to group, shared heartfelt conversations, reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.
A highlight of the evening was a special surprise: a recognition ceremony for two remarkable women, Marta and Iris, who had dedicated 25 years to the work at Hope Project, now called Amaranta Foundation Madrid. Their contributions have profoundly impacted the lives of countless women, transforming the project into a beacon of hope and renewal. Their commitment, marked by empathy, respect, and a deep alignment with the charism of Saint María Micaela, the founder of the Adorers, was celebrated with flowers and a small token of appreciation. While Marta couldn’t attend due to a family loss, Iris, deeply moved, expressed her gratitude and passed the microphone to a current participant of the program.
Figure 2- From left to right: Sr Ramona, Carmen, Iris, Sr Lumi at the service of Amaranta Foundation Madrid.
Testimonies of Hope and Gratitude
The testimonies that followed were the heart of the evening. Women currently in the program and those who had been part of it in the past shared their stories of transformation. They spoke of arriving at the Project in moments of despair and finding not just support but a home where they felt valued and accompanied on their journey.
The women expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of the Adorers sisters, educators, professionals, and volunteers, whose warmth and respect created an environment where they could heal and rebuild. While the program’s structure and rules initially seemed challenging, the women later realized how essential these were for achieving stability and growth.
The celebration of milestones—birthdays, Christmas, and other holidays—strengthened their sense of belonging and brought moments of joy and connection. One woman summed up the collective sentiment beautifully: “Here, we didn’t just find help; we found a family.”
Figure 3 – Epiphany morning at breakfast is an important moment in Spain.
A Community United in Solidarity
The evening concluded with hugs and goodbyes, as attendees accompanied each other to buses and metros, promising to reunite at the next celebration. This Christmas gathering was more than an event; it was a testament to the power of community, shared experiences, and unwavering support.
The transformation witnessed in the women who have passed through Amaranta Foundation is a source of joy and hope, not only for them but also for those who walk alongside them. Their courage inspires everyone to continue striving for a world filled with greater solidarity, love, and hope.
As the celebrations ended, it was clear that this shared journey is far from over. Together, they look forward to more milestones, more lives transformed, and more reasons to celebrate the beautiful bonds of friendship and resilience.
Begoña Iñarra, Volunteer at Amaranta Foundation Madrid
Another 400,000 refugees arrived to EU in the first six months of 2024 alone.
4,7 million people are displaced within Ukraine.
11 973 civilians and 583 children killed;
19 546 children deported to Russia or to temporary occupied territory;
1 932 children missed;
New wave of vulnerable internally displaced people (IDP) from the East. Since August of this year, 170,000 people have left their homes in the east of the country;
Intensification of bombing: introduction of guided aerial bombs (Zaporizzha, Sumy, Kharkiv regions), combined attacks of drones, missiles, ballistic missiles (Poltava, Lviv, Kyiv regions), double tapping (Odesa, Kharkiv regions);
Movement forward on the front line, burnt ground tactics;
Continued destruction of energy infrastructure – 60% of 2022 capacity was destroyed in 2024.
Destruction and damage of civilian infrastructure: 250 000 houses, 3 798 educational facilities, 1 911 healthcare facilities, 2 093 cultural objects, 630 religious building.[1]
Caritas Ukraine at the Front Line of Counter Trafficking
Significant war-related population displacement has increased the risks of human trafficking, as noted in a report by the Office of Monitoring and Combating Human Trafficking at the US Embassy in Ukraine. The war and its economic impact increased the individual vulnerability to human trafficking even of those Ukrainians who did not become displaced persons. National social service noted more cases of human trafficking and only for half a year granted 121 official statuses of the victims of human trafficking (in comparison to 118 in 2023). As in December 2024 National social service noted already 182 cases of human trafficking. 123 cases are combined types of exploitation, 19 cases of involving into war conflict, 15 persons became the victims of labor exploitation and 13 persons were sexually exploited.
[1] Data as of November 2024 by Ombudsman of Ukraine
The tendency of labor, sexual and other exploitation of Ukrainians in captivity or at the occupied territories, is going on. The representatives of Caritas Ukraine and all the experts in counter trafficking underline the affection of war and increasing the cases of exploitation due to armed conflict, occupation and captivity of civilians by russians.
“The on-going war has accelerated these exploitation trends. Traffickers know how to prey on people under stress; they know exactly who to target, how to recruit vulnerable individuals for later exploitation.” – Natalia Holynska, counter trafficking project manager, Caritas Ukraine.
During the last 6 months Caritas Ukraine staff identified 120 potential victims of trafficking, 78 survivors of trafficking. 77 of them were included into the project as direct beneficiaries and received the comprehensive assistance. Tailor made assistance to the victims is being given to the beneficiaries during a period of time. All the direct beneficiaries received psychological or psychotherapeutic services, social, medical, judicial, material assistance, information, referral, assistance in job searching and grants for micro-business.
Almost 70 thousand people received useful information and were probably prevented from risks of human trafficking. The on-line course created by Caritas Ukraine at the platform Prometheus “Human trafficking: how to protect yourself and your loved ones” was actively advertised among different target groups. General feedback of the participants is very good, they estimated the course with the mark 8,6 (from 10 possible). 9 from 10 participants would recommend this course to the others.
We are pleased to share two insightful reports authored by RENATE Working Board Member for Ireland, Brian O’Toole, Director of the Presentation Sisters Justice Desk. These reports offer a thoughtful exploration of critical issues at the heart of our mission:
Human Trafficking from a Faith and Justice Perspective This report captures the rich discussions from an event held at St. Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare. Featuring contributions from Sr. Abby Avelino, Dr. Ethna Regan, and Kevin Hyland, it examines the intersection of faith, justice, and the fight against human trafficking.
COP29 and the Care for the Earth A compelling and accessible piece reflecting on COP29, emphasizing the vital role of religious communities in environmental stewardship. It also highlights how climate change exacerbates the vulnerability of marginalized people, often leading to the devastating realities of human trafficking.
We warmly thank Brian for his dedication and thoughtful work in producing these invaluable resources. His insights deepen our understanding of these pressing issues and inspire meaningful action.
A powerful short film by RENATE, Beyond Borders explores the harsh realities of human trafficking and exploitation in Ireland and the UK. Beyond Borders will challenge you to look beyond the surface, confront uncomfortable truths, and join the fight for freedom and dignity. It has been developed to be used as a tool for advocacy and awareness raising. Please feel welcome to use it in your communities and share it amongst your networks.
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