Trafficking in human beings: the fight on the border with Myanmar: 9,329 victims received protection in Asia in 2022

ROME (AsiaNews) – In 2022, 9329 victims of human trafficking in Asia received protection thanks to the action of Talitha Kumthe network founded in 2009 byInternational Union of Superiors General (Uisg) to join the forces of the nuns in the fight against this hateful phenomenon. The data is contained in the annual report on the activities released by this body which today also sees male congregations, associations and people of different religions collaborate with the religious.

A very busy year. “The past year – explains the international coordinator Sr. Abby Avelino, Filipino religious of the Maryknoll Missionaries – was one of the most challenging ever, due to the development of many interconnected crises, such as the impact of the pandemic, the ongoing conflicts in many countries, from Myanmar to Sri Lanka, from Syria to Burkina Faso, to Venezuela, and then the war in Ukraine, which has caused suffering to millions of people, without forgetting the devastating natural disasters caused by climate change.

The impact of crises on human trafficking. All of these crises have a direct impact on human trafficking internationally. The members of Talitha Kum they continue to answer our call to action, healing, bringing relief, providing tools and engaging in the lives of victims and survivors, as well as populations at risk of trafficking and exploitation”.

The witness. From the report we report this unsigned testimony of a Thai nun who carries out her ministry alongside the victims of human trafficking on the border with Myanmar. “The fight against trafficking in human beings in Thailand is a great challenge due to the border with Myanmar and the constant flow of people fleeing violence and war and who are particularly vulnerable to this phenomenon. Not to mention – says the nun – that our previous government had promoted prostitution. As social workers, we cannot remain passive in the face of this reality. We must do our best to help every person who needs support to improve the quality of their life”.

The biggest challenge with young people. “In this work – continues the nun’s story – the greatest challenge is to raise awareness among young people. It worries me a lot to see them in refugee camps, while they live in poverty and have a lot of free time. They tend to follow everything they see online, which can be very violent, and risk getting involved in drug dealing and drug use. We fight to give them a glimpse into the future and get them out of these harmful circles.”

“It’s lucky for me to be by their side.” “The most beautiful experience of my work, on the other hand – the nun continues – is when I find myself helping women, men, adolescents and children who have survived trafficking in human beings. I feel fortunate to be able to help them and walk alongside them as they reintegrate into society. This makes me very happy; It’s really nice to see someone overcome these difficulties.”

The restoration of the dignity of women and men. “Talitha Kum Thailand collaborates with the government thanks to the Thai law against trafficking in human beings. But we don’t stop here – the nun said again – as brides of Christ, we are part of congregations that bring care and hope to restore human dignity. Our goal is to promote access to justice and help people on their way. I feel strengthened when I meet and collaborate with many different religious congregations.”