The World Day against trafficking in persons is observed annually on July 30th to raise awareness about a crime which affects millions of people worldwide [1]. Human trafficking is a violation of human rights involving the exploitation of individuals for various purposes, which can include forced labor, sexual exploitation, and organ trafficking.
This occasion serves as a reminder of the complex intersection between human trafficking and homelessness. Homelessness often exposes individuals to increased vulnerability, making them targets for traffickers who exploit their situation [2]. Lack of stable housing, limited access to support networks, and economic hardships contribute to the susceptibility of people experiencing homelessness to trafficking.
The Daughters of Charity in Ghana witness this intersection every day. With the “13 Houses” project: ‘Street Children’ they help girls and young women who wish to leave the streets but have no place to go, by protecting them from trafficking and exploitation. In Kumasi (where the Sisters operate) the need is enormous, and it is in fact estimated that at least 20,000 children [3] live on the streets and are at risk of being exploited. The Daughters work ceaselessly to help them explore other options in life, including by helping them towards reintegration, providing opportunities for education, and offering support to set up their own business or engage in skills training.
Sister Olivia (“13 Houses” Project Leader and Director at the Talitha Kum*), shares with us her testimony together with Favor, a 16-year-old girl who has been assisted by the Sisters.
On this day, we come together to advocate for the victims, and to call for concerted efforts to eradicate human trafficking in all its forms.
* An International Network who engages in the work against Human Trafficking, facilitates collaboration between organizations and countries, and exchanges information between members of religious congregations in more than 90 countries around the globe.
Interview with Sister Olivia, Daughter of Charity (Kumasi)
“13 Houses” Project Leader and Director at the Talitha Kum
Continue reading at vfhomelessalliance.org
