Freedom Forum Asia: Strengthening Faith-Based Collaboration Against Human Trafficking
Soeur Paula Phornprasertraksa, Talitha Kum Asia Coordinator, and a Young Ambassador of Talitha Kum joined key leaders, advocates, and survivors at the Freedom Forum Asia, organized by the Philippine Interfaith Movement Against Human Trafficking (PIMAHT) in partnership with Walk Free Global Freedom Network (GFN).
I. About PIMAHT
PIMAHT, established in 2013, is a faith-based organization uniting churches and civil society groups to combat human trafficking in the Philippines. This coalition includes members from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), National Council Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), and the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC), among others. The group focuses on prevention, awareness-raising, victim protection, and advocacy through partnerships with faith leaders and community organizations.
II. Addressing the Evolving Face of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking in Southeast Asia has escalated due to emerging trends like online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC) and forced engagement in cybercrimes. These issues worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, as lockdowns and economic hardships created opportunities for organized crime to exploit vulnerable populations. In 2023, cases of online scams and exploitation surged, with PIMAHT actively responding through victim support, case referrals, and advocacy.
To address these challenges, PIMAHT has strengthened its partnerships and aligned its priorities with regional anti-trafficking efforts. The Freedom Forum Asia serves as a platform to discuss these pressing issues, celebrate milestones, and craft actionable solutions.
III. The Freedom Forum Asia Theme and Objectives
Under the theme “Revisiting the Past, Embracing the Present, and Envisioning the Future,” the forum aimed to:
- Explore emerging trends in online trafficking and identify challenges, gaps, and solutions.
- Amplify survivor voices, sharing their journeys of recovery and insights for effective rehabilitation.
- Formulate policy recommendations based on collective discussions.
- Strengthen faith-based and interfaith collaborations in combating human trafficking.
IV. Key Activities and Highlights
The forum brought together 100 participants from Southeast Asia, including government representatives, church leaders, survivors, and advocates. The event featured keynote talks, break-out discussions, and exhibits showcasing innovative anti-trafficking solutions.
Soeur Paula Phornprasertraksa and the Young Ambassador of Talitha Kum contributed to these discussions by highlighting Talitha Kum’s regional initiatives and the role of young leaders in driving change. Their presence underscored the importance of faith-based networks in tackling complex issues like human trafficking, especially among youth and vulnerable populations.
V. Building Hope and Collaboration
As a beacon of faith-driven action, the Freedom Forum Asia has inspired a renewed commitment to collaboration among churches, governments, and civil society. By raising awareness, engaging communities, and advocating for policies that support survivors, this event reaffirms the power of collective action in the fight against human trafficking.
Through initiatives like PIMAHT and partnerships with organizations like Talitha Kum, the future promises stronger, more unified responses to this global crisis.
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