World Day Against Trafficking: How the Church in India is Fighting Modern Slavery

July 30, 2026: Across India, thousands of people leave home every year in search of work, education or a brighter future. But what happens when that hope is exploited? False promises of employment, marriage or overseas opportunities continue to lure vulnerable people into the hands of traffickers. As the world observes the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, the Catholic Church is responding with more than awareness—it is building networks that protect lives and restore dignity.

One such initiative is AMRAT – Talitha Kum India, a national network of women religious committed to combating human trafficking. Founded in November 2009 during its first workshop in Raia, Goa, the network was the vision of Sr.Jyoti Pinto, who was moved to act after witnessing the realities of modern-day slavery while representing the Union of International Superiors General (UISG) in Rome in 2007.

Inspired by Jesus' words, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10), AMRAT brings together religious congregations across India to combat trafficking through prevention, protection, rescue, rehabilitation, reintegration and repatriation of survivors. It also raises awareness in vulnerable communities, promotes safe migration, supports grassroots initiatives, collaborates with government and civil society organisations, and advocates for the rights of trafficked persons.

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As part of the global Talitha Kum network, AMRAT continues to strengthen the Church's response through training programmes, collaboration and survivor-centred care, ensuring that victims are accompanied on their journey towards healing and a new beginning.

The need for such initiatives has never been greater. According to the 2024 UNODC Global Report on Trafficking in Persons, detected trafficking victims worldwide increased by 25% compared to pre-pandemic levels, while the exploitation of children and forced labour cases continues to rise. Poverty, conflict, unsafe migration and online recruitment have made traffickers more sophisticated and widened their reach.

The World Day Against Trafficking in Persons is therefore more than an annual observance. It is a reminder that protecting human dignity begins with recognising vulnerability, standing with survivors and ensuring that no promise of a better life becomes a pathway to exploitation.

A Prayer Against Human Trafficking

Lord, protect all those trapped in human trafficking and restore their dignity, freedom, and hope.

Strengthen all who work to rescue, protect, and heal those who have been exploited.

Give courage and wisdom to those who fight against this grave injustice.

Touch the hearts of those involved in trafficking, open their eyes to the truth, and lead them away from exploitation and violence.

May justice prevail, may hearts be transformed, and may every person be free to live with dignity and peace. Amen.

By Catholic Connect Reporter