In the Quechua language, Kawsay means “dignified life.” This meaning came to life and at the X National Assembly of the Kawsay Peru Network, held in Lima from June 20 to 23, 2024. The slogan for the gathering was “Walking together for a society without human trafficking.”
Two Sisters of Mercy and three associates participated in the assembly, and explored the realities of trafficking at the local, regional and global level, sharing strategies and best practices developed over the years. The discussion also turned to future challenges, emphasizing the importance of finding innovative approaches to deal with emerging issues, such as the impact of digital crime.
“Human trafficking is an inhumane reality that violently attacks people’s dignity and fundamental rights. So, prevention is crucial to eradicate this social scourge by raising awareness and protecting victims, with the goal of dignifying the human condition,” one of the associates said.
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s 2022 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons, women and girls make up most trafficking victims worldwide, with minors representing approximately one in four victims. Migrant workers are particularly vulnerable, with their risk of forced labor being up to three times higher than that of non-migrants. The situation in South America mirrors this global trend: most victims are women, and forced labor is the most prevalent form of exploitation, accounting for nearly two-thirds of cases. Sexual exploitation follows closely, representing over a third of the reported instances.
“Hearing the heartbreaking stories of pain from survivors of human trafficking is overwhelming; words cannot fully capture the depth of their suffering,” one sister said. “This is why we are dedicated to creating a society free from human trafficking, with a strong focus on prevention.”
For the Mercy Community, this struggle extends beyond a personal commitment; it is a mission of compassion and justice that infuses their lives and vocations. From the streets of Lima to the most remote communities of Puno, they have witnessed the devastating effects of human trafficking and raise their voices to demand genuine and lasting change.
“It is impossible to truly grasp such an atrocity until you hear the testimonies. My indignation fuels my daily commitment: to stop human trafficking!” another associate said of this tragic crime.
Kawsay Network, is a network uniting 15 religious orders across Latin America, all committed to eradicating human trafficking. The gathering demonstrated the power of solidarity and collective action. While their primary focus is on prevention, they also offer support and assistance to victims.
On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the commitment and dedication of the Sisters and Associates of Mercy inspire us to raise our voices and unite in the fight for a world where human dignity is always upheld and protected.
Read the statement of the Kawsay Network Assembly here.
For more information on efforts to end human trafficking, please refer to the Alliance to End Human Trafficking, which was founded and supported by Catholic sisters.