Order of Malta stands with Pope Francis in fight to end Human Trafficking

By Francesca Merlo

Pope Francis continues to press for an end to the horrendous practice of human trafficking. Speaking during the Sunday Angelus on the 29th of July, he looked ahead and marked the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, July 30th, by calling upon all people of goodwill to take responsibility, denounce injustice and stand firm against the "shameful crime" of human trafficking.

Order of Malta working to fight Human Trafficking

We spoke to Michel Veuthey, Ambassador of The Sovereign Order of Malta to Monitor and Combat Human Trafficking. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, he is also Deputy Permanent Observer of the Mission of the Order at the UN in Geneva.

Michel Veuthey talks about the Order of Malta’s involvement in fighting human trafficking, highlighting some of the main aims the Order have to end Modern Slavery such as:

- Help everyday people identify their role in perpetrating modern slavery

- Help prevent slavery by using existing field services

- Support and reintegrate slavery survivors with means and skills to live and stay out of trafficking and irregular situations

- Promote better access to remedies and support for survivors.

He talks about the many organisations with whom they have created ties, amongst which UN agencies, the IOM and of course the Catholic Church.

Pope Francis’ voice – heard and approved

He also discusses the importance they give to Pope Francis’ voice. He says that Pope Francis is not only very concerned but also very active with regards to the matter, constantly reiterating his concern not only within the Church.

The Order of Malta is a religious and lay Sovereign Entity of Public International Law and was established 900 years ago to care for vulnerable people – including victims of trafficking.