Standing Against Human Trafficking — Together

worldwide
03.07.2026
Human trafficking is one of the gravest violations of human dignity in our world today. We refuse to look away - always, but especially during the 's current men's soccer world cup.

Pope Francis has called human trafficking “an open wound in the body of Christ.” Our newly updated webpage on Fighting Human Trafficking brings together the full scope of our global commitment — from rescue and shelter in Albania to prevention education in Canada, missions and ministries in Kenya, Nepal, and India and work within several important networks. Rooted in the Mary Ward tradition of justice and women’s empowerment, our sisters and lay collaborators work at the frontlines: offering counselling, survivor support, and systemic advocacy. 

As we enter the round of the final 16 nations during the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026 in the USA, Canada and Mexico, two current campaigns deserve our special attention. 

 

In Spain, our sisters are raising awareness through a compelling video campaign: Marta Santos, our Spanish JPIC coordinator, talks to David about this issue, which is so often overlooked yet very real, to support efforts to raise awareness of human trafficking. 

In Canada, the Mary Ward Centre Toronto is actively working to highlight the sharp rise in human trafficking risks surrounding major sporting events — including the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026.

>> Read the position paper

Large events attract large crowds — and, tragically, traffickers.

Let’s show human trafficking the red card. Let’s break the cycle of normalising this crime. 

Awareness saves lives. 

Explore our work. Share the message. Act.