Combating Human Trafficking: From Personal Experience to Global Action

Article Created by Mr. Vincenzo Forino (Ambassador of Stop Human Trafficking Worldwide, (Italy)

Human trafficking is one of the darkest realities of our time. It is a severe violation of human rights that deprives individuals of their freedom, dignity, and safety. This crime, rooted in inequality and injustice, affects millions across the globe and disproportionately targets the most vulnerable, especially women and children.

I would like to share a concrete example from my personal experience. In the early 2000s, Italy faced a crisis with the arrival of undocumented migrants from Albania. Thousands of people arrived daily, including women and children, many of whom were at high risk of exploitation by criminal organizations involved in prostitution, organ trafficking, and modern slavery.

At that time, I was responsible for the North Africa and Middle East Desk at the Visa Center of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Italian government’s strategy was to establish new consulates in Albania, allowing people to enter Italy with clear identification and purpose, rather than being left vulnerable to criminal networks. I was tasked with opening a new Italian Consulate in Vlora, which at the time was essentially a lawless zone.

Within two months, the consulate received a high number of visa applications. Many people who might have otherwise relied on criminal organizations were able to enter Italy legally for tourism, family reunification, study, work, or medical treatment. Parallel to this, the Italian government implemented local aid programs to create employment opportunities in Albania.

The long-term results have been remarkable. More than 20 years later, many Italians now live and study in Albania, which has seen exceptional economic development. The criminal networks dedicated to human trafficking were significantly reduced, demonstrating how legal migration pathways, local support, and international cooperation can be effective tools against human trafficking.

The COVID-19 pandemic, as we know, has worsened existing inequalities and created new risks. Traffickers have adapted quickly, using technology to expand their networks, recruit victims online, and operate across borders while remaining hidden. These developments have placed even greater pressure on justice systems and protection mechanisms worldwide.

At the same time, technology offers new opportunities: to investigate, prosecute, and, most importantly, raise awareness. But technology alone is not enough. We need values, we need solidarity, and we need communities to act. This is where religions and faith-based organizations come in.

Religious institutions are among the most trusted, far-reaching, and resilient structures in society. They are deeply embedded in local communities, speak to the conscience of individuals, and have both the moral authority and the spiritual tools to promote justice, compassion, and dignity.

In this regard, the Islamic community has played, and continues to play, a vital and inspiring role in combating human trafficking. Across the world, Muslim scholars and leaders have condemned human trafficking as haram—strictly forbidden. Islam teaches that all human beings are created by Allah with inherent dignity and must be protected from oppression and exploitation. The Qur'an clearly commands believers to stand firmly for justice and defend the weak and vulnerable.

Guided by these principles, numerous Islamic organizations have acted. Mosques and Islamic NGOs have launched educational campaigns, provided shelter, food, counseling, and legal support to survivors, offering both material aid and spiritual care. Humanitarian organizations, academic institutions, and local initiatives have supported victims and worked to prevent trafficking through education, community vigilance, and advocacy.

Religious leaders in the Islamic tradition have also engaged in interfaith dialogue and public advocacy, helping shape more humane policies and stronger protections. While I emphasize the Islamic contribution today, I also acknowledge the efforts of other religious groups. Caritas, the Catholic relief organization, for instance, has offered protection and reintegration support to many survivors through its global network, collaborating closely with local communities.

Religions can act in three essential ways:

1. Educating communities through sermons, lessons, and outreach to recognize the signs of trafficking and understand its consequences.

2. Protecting the vulnerable, especially migrants, women, and children, by creating safe spaces and support networks.

3. Advocating justice, working with civil society and governments to promote laws and systems that protect victims and punish traffickers.

Let me close with a call to action. To all religious leaders, communities, and believers: let us not remain silent. Let us use our voices, our networks, and our values to raise awareness, resist injustice, and support survivors. Let mosques, churches, and temples become centers of light, compassion, and truth. Let us educate our communities with courage and wisdom, and stand firm in the belief that every human life is sacred. Together, through faith, action, and practical initiatives like those I witnessed in Italy and Albania, we can put an end to this terrible crime.

Thank you for your attention.

May peace and justice guide us all.