ROME (AsiaNews): In 2022, 9,329 victims of human trafficking in Asia received protection thanks to the action of Talitha Kum, a network set up in 2009 by the International Union of Superiors General [UISG] to fight this scourge, this according to its annual report, which was released on June 16. Different congregations, associations, and people of different religions collaborate with the nuns.
“The past year has been one of the most challenging due to many interrelated crises such as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, conflicts in many countries [Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Syria, Burkina Faso, Venezuela, etc.], the war in Ukraine which has caused distress for millions of people, and devastating natural disasters as consequences of climate change. All of these crises are having a direct impact on human trafficking worldwide,”Maryknoll Sister Abby Avelino and Talitha Kum international coordinator, wrote.
“In spite of the challenges we have witnessed, members continue to respond to the Call to Action by caring, healing, empowering and being involved with the lives of victims and survivors, and populations that are at risk of trafficking and exploitation,” she said.
In the section dedicated to Asia, Sister Paula Kwandao Phonprasertruksa, regional representative of the Sisters of Saint Paul de Chartres, notes that Talitha Kum’s presence at the assembly marking the 50th anniversary of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences in Bangkok, was one of the important experiences of the year, which enabled them to boost their network of contacts.
In an unsigned testimony, a Thai woman religious who works with victims of human trafficking on the border with Myanmar, notes that,
“Working against human trafficking in Thailand is a grave challenge due to our border with Myanmar and the constant flow of people escaping violence and war who are vulnerable to human trafficking. This is not to mention that our previous government promoted prostitution. As social workers, we cannot stand passively in the face of this reality. We must do our best to help every person who needs support in improving their quality of life.”
She said, “The biggest challenge of this work is raising awareness among youth. I am very concerned to see them in refugee camps, living in poverty with a lot of free time. They tend to follow everything they see online, which can be very violent, and are at risk of getting caught up in drug dealing and consumption. We struggle to inspire them and pull them out of these harmful cycles.”
She went on to say that “however, the most beautiful experience of my work is when I help women, men, teenagers, and children, who have survived human trafficking. I feel blessed to be able to help and walk by their side as they re-enter society. That brings me so much happiness; it is truly beautiful to see someone overcome such hardships.”
She concluded, “Talitha Kum Thailand collaborates with the government thanks to the Thai law against human trafficking. Nevertheless, we do not stop there. As brides of Christ, we are part of religious congregations that bring care and hope to restore human dignity.
“We aim to achieve this by promoting access to justice and helping people in their journey. I feel empowered when working alongside and meeting with many different religious congregations.”
