Global Anglican Gathering in India Targets Human Trafficking
(Photo: USPG)
In a determined effort to combat human trafficking and modern slavery, Anglicans from around the world converged this week in the Diocese of Durgapur, located in northern India. The event was orchestrated by the diocese alongside the missionary organization United Society Partners in the Gospel (USPG).
Known for its exemplary anti-trafficking initiatives, the Diocese of Durgapur collaborates with USPG to address these pressing global issues.
Globally, approximately 50 million individuals find themselves ensnared in modern slavery, with India accounting for a staggering 11 million, earning it the unsettling title of the world’s slavery capital.
The illicit earnings from forced labor are estimated to reach around £185 billion annually on a global scale.
The Rev Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar, who serves as Global Theologian and Director of Global Mission at USPG, emphasized the human aspect of these statistics: “These are not distant statistics: they are real people created in God’s image, with inherent worth, dignity, and value, regardless of status or circumstance. Because of this, the Church cannot remain passive.”
He further invoked Christian teachings as a call to action, citing biblical passages: “As Christians, we are called to respond: to ‘let the oppressed go free’ (Isaiah 58:6), to ‘seek justice, rescue the oppressed’ (Isaiah 1:17), and to proclaim ‘freedom for the captives’ (Luke 4:18).”
The conference attracted about 50 attendees from diverse countries, professions, and backgrounds within the global Anglican community.
Participants were also given the opportunity to visit Durgapur’s anti-trafficking programme firsthand, engaging with the operators to learn effective strategies in combating modern slavery.
The Rt Rev Sameer Isaac Khimla, Bishop of Durgapur, underscored the gravity of the issue, stating, “Human trafficking continues to be one of the darkest realities of our time, affecting millions, stripping individuals of their identity, freedom, and hope. As a Church and as a community rooted in faith and compassion, we cannot stand by in silence”.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
