A Call to Protect Human Dignity
Each year on July 30, the international community marks World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, established by the United Nations in 2013 to raise awareness of one of the most serious violations of human rights.
In 2026, the theme “Trapped Behind the Scam” highlights a rapidly growing form of human trafficking. Organized criminal networks exploit thousands of people by forcing them to participate in financial fraud, online scams, and other criminal activities. Behind these operations are victims who have been deprived of their freedom and subjected to manipulation, threats, and exploitation.
A Crime That Knows No Borders
Human trafficking affects every region of the world. Criminal networks prey on vulnerable individuals, recruiting, transporting, and exploiting them for profit.
The following statistics illustrate the scale of the problem:
- 74% of traffickers operate within organized criminal groups.
- In 2022, victims from 162 nationalities were identified across 128 countries.
- Approximately 70% of individuals investigated, prosecuted, or convicted for trafficking in persons were men.
In response to this global crisis, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) calls for stronger international cooperation, better protection for victims, and increased efforts to dismantle organized criminal networks.
Raising Awareness to Prevent Exploitation
The fight against human trafficking does not rely solely on law enforcement and the justice system. Education, prevention, and public awareness also play a vital role.
UNODC has developed a multilingual educational resource, accompanied by a teacher’s guide and educational videos available in English, Spanish and French. These materials help educate young people between the ages of 13 and 18 about the many forms of exploitation associated with human trafficking.
In Quebec, the Comité d’action contre la traite humaine interne et internationale (CATHII) leads a variety of initiatives to raise public awareness, defend the rights of victims, and promote stronger public policies to combat trafficking.
The international Blue Heart Campaign also encourages every individual to take meaningful action by speaking out against human trafficking and supporting survivors.
A Commitment That Reflects the SNJM Mission
For many years, the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) have been actively engaged in the fight against human trafficking through a collective corporate stand condemning this modern form of exploitation. Faithful to their mission of promoting human dignity, justice, and fundamental human rights, they support initiatives that foster prevention, education, protection of vulnerable people, and advocacy for victims.
On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, everyone is invited to become informed, remain vigilant, and support organizations working tirelessly to end this modern form of slavery. Together, we can help build a world where every person is free to live with dignity and security.
