A three-day “Capacity-Building Training on Prevention of Human Trafficking”, organized by Talitha Kum Bangladesh, was held at the BCR Centre in Savar with the aim of increasing awareness of emerging forms and risks of human trafficking, restoring dignity and hope to survivors of trafficking, and strengthening the capacities of members of the organization.

The training was held from 3 to 5 September, with the theme: “Trapped Behind the Scam: Restoring Human Dignity and Hope for Survivors of Trafficking.” Members of Talitha Kum Bangladesh, cell leaders, youth representatives, and members of the Core Committee from different dioceses across the country participated in the training.

The main activities of the training began on 4 September. The opening prayer and welcome address were led by Sister Pushpa Gomes, CSC, President of Talitha Kum Bangladesh. The first session on the main theme of the training was facilitated by Mr. Suman Francis Gomes, Communications and Outreach Analyst, UNDP Bangladesh. He highlighted the changing realities of human trafficking and the importance of human dignity and hope in the context of various forms of deception and scams.

In the following session, Sister Josephine Rosario, Coordinator of Talitha Kum Bangladesh, and Sister Suparna Rosario, Secretary, presented the history and activities of Talitha Kum, as well as emerging forms of human trafficking. Ms. Munnja Mahin of the BRAC Migration and Human Trafficking Desk also shared BRAC’s experiences and initiatives in preventing human trafficking. The presentations were followed by an interactive discussion and question-and-answer session with the participants.

An important component of the training was diocese-based group work. Participants discussed the activities implemented in their respective dioceses, significant achievements, major challenges, and recommendations for the future. Separate meetings were also held for cell leaders, youth representatives, and other participants. The outcomes of these discussions were subsequently presented in the larger group.

To strengthen organizational efficiency and accountability, practical sessions were conducted by Mr. Chandan Rosario, a member of the Core Committee, on Zoom Meeting Management, Photography, Reporting, Program Preparation, and Account Management. These sessions focused on strengthening participants’ practical skills in planning, implementing, documenting, and managing the finances of grassroots activities.

On the final day, 5 September, participants developed Action Plans at the diocesan level. This was followed by a session on the National Action Plan, facilitated by Sister Josephine Rosario and Sister Suparna Rosario. Through this process, plans were developed to ensure more coordinated and effective efforts in preventing human trafficking at both local and national levels.

The capacity-building training has contributed to strengthening awareness, collaboration, and networking in the fight against human trafficking. It has also created an opportunity to make the diocese-based activities of Talitha Kum Bangladesh more systematic, coordinated, and effective. At the same time, the training further strengthened the commitment to stand alongside survivors of human trafficking with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and a firm commitment to upholding their human dignity.