Summary
Pope Leo XIV marked the 12th World Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking on Feb. 8, observed as the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, a former slave who became an icon for trafficking efforts. In his message titled “Peace Begins with Dignity: A Global Call to End Human Trafficking,” Pope Leo XIV emphasized Christ’s resurrection greeting, suggesting that true peace stems from protecting human dignity. The pontiff warned that contemporary conflicts often dismiss the loss of life as mere collateral damage, fueling human trafficking among vulnerable populations such as displaced persons and refugees. He also addressed newer forms of exploitation like “cyber slavery.” Pope Leo XIV urged prayer and awareness to combat these issues, with events in Rome spanning several days culminating on Sunday with an Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square. Additionally, he thanked those working to assist trafficking victims, including international Catholic networks such as Talitha Kum, and acknowledged survivors who advocate for others.
Key Topics
Pope Leo XIV, Human trafficking, dignity
