Initiated by Pope Francis in 2015, the World Day of Prayer and Reflection against Human Trafficking is celebrated each year on February 8. This date coincides with the commemoration of Saint Josephine Bakhita, an emblematic figure in the struggle against slavery and human trafficking.
This day seeks to bring together people from all walks of life in prayer, reflection, and action in order to put an end to human trafficking and contemporary forms of slavery.
Saint Josephine Bakhita, a Symbol of Dignity and Resilience
Saint Josephine Bakhita – Source: Vatican
Born around 1869 in Olgossa, Darfur (Sudan), Josephine Bakhita was a victim of human trafficking from early childhood. Kidnapped and enslaved at about nine years of age, she endured severe abuse and carried throughout her life the marks of this persecution—144 scars.
After emigrating to Italy, she joined a religious congregation and became a deeply loved figure, often affectionately called “Mother Moretta.” She died on February 8, 1947, was beatified in 1992, and canonized in 2000. Her life remains a powerful testimony of resilience, faith, and human dignity.
12th Edition: A Global Call for Peace and Dignity
The 12th edition of this day is held under the theme: “Peace Begins with Dignity: A Global Call to End Human Trafficking.”
This theme is largely inspired by the words spoken by Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025:
“Peace be with you! This is the peace of the Risen Christ—an unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, a God who loves us all unconditionally.”
Why Take Part in This Global Initiative?
This day invites women and men of all ages, cultures, and faith traditions to come together in prayer and reflection. It also seeks to raise awareness among communities, organizations, and institutions about the reality of human trafficking and to encourage concrete action, particularly in support of improved economic conditions and greater security.
At a time when traffickers increasingly exploit information and communication technologies, heightened awareness is essential to foster lasting systemic change.
Prayer remains a privileged space to:
- hold victims of human trafficking in compassion,
- support those working for their freedom,
- nurture collective awareness and active solidarity,
- bring visibility to a reality too often ignored.
International Activities Throughout the Week
Numerous local and international activities will take place from February 4 to 10, including:
- an online event with young people,
- a public audience with the Pope (February 4),
- a candlelight procession followed by a prayer vigil in Rome (February 5).
A prayer guide, available in French, English, and Spanish, is provided to accompany this vigil. A multilingual concept note (French—English—Spanish) also offers deeper insight into the meaning and scope of this day.
Global Prayer and Reflection Marathon—February 6, 2026
For this 12th edition, the global marathon of prayer and reflection against human trafficking will be held exceptionally on Friday, February 6, 2026, online, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. CET (5 a.m. to 9 a.m., Quebec time zone) rather than on February 8.
Broadcast on all continents and in several languages (including French, English, and Spanish), this marathon pays tribute to Saint Josephine Bakhita, reflects global collaboration, and serves as a catalyst for engagement.
“Together, on this journey, we are pilgrims of human dignity, with hope, dreams, and action against all forms of exploitation and trafficking.”
A Mobilization Supported by International Networks
The promotion of this day is carried out by the International Union of Superiors General (UISG) and the Union of Superiors General (USG). Coordination of the network of partners and participants has been entrusted to Talitha Kum, an international network founded by the UISG to combat human trafficking.