After the Angelus:
Dear brothers and sisters,
yesterday we celebrated the liturgical memorial of Saint Josephine Bakhita and
the World Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking. Healing this
wound — because it is truly a wound! — that exploits the weakest, demands the
commitment of all: institutions, associations and educational agencies.
Concerning prevention, I would like to point out that various studies show that
criminal organisations increasingly use modern means of communication to lure
victims under false pretences. It is therefore necessary, on the one hand, to
educate people in the healthy use of technology and, on the other, to monitor
and remind service providers of their responsibilities.
Distressing reports continue to come from north-west Syria, particularly
regarding the plight of many women and children, of people forced to flee due to
the military escalation. I renew my heartfelt appeal to the international
community and all those involved to use diplomatic means, dialogue and
negotiation, in accordance with International Humanitarian Law, to safeguard the
lives and future of civilians. Let us pray for this beloved and tormented Syria:
Hail Mary… […]
