The 30th of July 2024 will highlight the 11th year of the Commemoration of the International Day of Human Trafficking, since its establishment in 2013 by the United Nations. This significant day allows for intentional awareness-raising of the unlawful multi-billion rand crime of human trafficking, which continues to exploit vulnerable men, women, boys, and girls, regardless of age, gender, culture, or race.
The crime of human trafficking involves the exploitation of individuals through coercion, force, or deception for purposes such as forced labour, sexual exploitation, or involuntary servitude. Victims often find themselves trapped in situations where they are deprived of freedom, exposed to abuse, and stripped of their basic human rights. The sad reality is that love and security are not the norm for hundreds of millions of children who suffer from sexual abuse or exploitation.
The theme “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking” calls for a united, urgent global response to the increasing crimes of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of boys and girls of all ages from around the world. We can no longer turn a blind eye to the unique vulnerabilities faced by children in trafficking situations. It is now more than ever required for everyone to center their commitment on protecting every child from these heinous crimes.
Children are particularly vulnerable to trafficking due to their inherent dependence on adults and their limited ability to protect themselves. Factors contributing to this vulnerability include:
- Poverty: Economic hardship can push families to make desperate decisions, increasing the risk of children being trafficked for labour or other exploitative purposes.
- Conflict and Displacement: Armed conflicts and natural disasters can separate children from their families and expose them to trafficking networks.
- Lack of Education: Without access to education, children are at greater risk of exploitation and abuse.
The Salvation Army in Southern Africa continues to be intentional about the safety and protection of all children who participate in our programmes or are placed in our care through various mandatory child protection initiatives and the Protective Behaviours curriculum for all Officers, Soldiers, and friends.
Furthermore, the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons in the Territory will also be commemorated in the respective Divisions through school assemblies, community prayer walks, awareness campaigns, and focused prayer groups, in an effort to spread the message of prevention, protection, and awareness for the safety of all children.
Matthew 18:6, where Jesus warns those who do not care for those who are vulnerable: “Anyone who causes these little ones to stumble, it would be better to have a millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”
Children are a precious gift from God, and we have the privilege and responsibility to care for and protect them from the daily tug of war of evil that seeks to exploit their vulnerability.
How can you get involved?
On this day, governments, organizations, and civil society can come together to host events aimed at raising awareness and facilitating dialogues and activities:
- Awareness & Educational Campaigns: Workshops, seminars, and online campaigns to inform the public about the realities of human trafficking and the signs to look for.
- Advocacy: Initiatives to influence policy changes and support legislation that strengthens protections for victims.
- Local Community Outreach: Collaboration with local communities to provide support and resources for at-risk individuals and survivors.
- Prayer Walks in Local Communities.
The International Day Against Human Trafficking is more than just a day of observance; it also serves as a powerful reminder that children are among the most vulnerable victims of human trafficking. By prayerfully raising awareness, advocating, and supporting survivors, we can work together to end child trafficking and ensure that freedom and dignity are rights for all.
Let’s join in prayer as we remember the many children tricked, trapped, and trafficked into exploitation and slavery.