In his statement on May 16, 2008 to the Bishops of Thailand, Benedict XIV stated: "I wish to express my appreciation for the efforts of the entire Catholic community of Thailand to uphold the dignity of every human life, especially the most vulnerable. Of particular concern to you is the scourge of the trafficking of women and children, and prostitution. Undoubtedly poverty is a factor underlying these phenomena, and in this regard I know much is being achieved through the Church’s development programs. But there is a further aspect which must be acknowledged and collectively addressed if this abhorrent human exploitation is to be effectively confronted. I am speaking of the trivialization of sexuality in the media and entertainment industries which fuels a decline in moral values and leads to the degradation of women, the weakening of fidelity in marriage and even the abuse of children."
TRAFFICKING IN HUMAN PERSONS
Antonietta Abreu, JPIC Coordinator, Judith Lupo, Animator (B) |
Thirty women religious from different congregations participated in the 3rd Seminar of the Network “A Cry for Life”, May 15-17, 2008. Sisters Antonietta Abreu and Judith Lupo of the Brazilian Province were among those who attended this event as members of the network.
The three-day conference had the following objectives:
•To reflect on the reality – the group reviewed the history of the NETWORK since it first meeting in 2006. A member of the Office of Prevention and Prosecution of Trafficking in Human Persons (Secretary of State for Justice and Defense of Citizens) in São Paulo presented the principal challenges, iniciatives and policies for addressing trafficking in human trafficking. He commented on three forms of trafficking: sexual exploitation, domestic servitude and the sale of human organs. In describing the work of the office, he noted that there are some 37 committees within the bureau which collaborate in the areas of advocacy and public policy. A film, “Combating Trafficking in Human Persons”, visually depicted the reality, challenging its viewers to consciousness-raising and action.
•To evaluate the NETWORK’S Journey - The participants presented initiatives that are being implemented in their regions (SP/Rio de Janeiro/Rondônia/Espírito Santo/Centro-Oeste/Florianópolis/Ceará/Piauí/Maranhão).
•To Act – develop a Plan of Action for 2008/2009.
Two representatives of the NETWORK will attend a meeting on Human Trafficking sponsored by IOM (International Organization for Migrants) and UISG to be held in Rome, June 2-7, 2008.
Other JPIC News
The World Social Program January 27-February 1, 2009 will address the issue of Trafficking in Human Persons. Antonietta and Maria Helena Morra will both participate. For more information, see: www.forumsocialmundial.org.br
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