Human Trafficking and the Church

As Reformed Christians, we believe Jesus Christ rules over every square inch of our world. Called to be Christ's agents in this world as we wait for his return, we work to establish his kingdom here on earth and proclaim that hatred and oppression have no place in God's world. These forces degrade individuals, races, and nations, denying their humanity and preventing them from being whom God desires them to be. We therefore seek justice for the victims of violence, slavery, and human trafficking around the world, speaking up for the voiceless and for the rights of all who are oppressed (Proverbs 31:8).

In fulfillment of this calling, the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee (CRWRC) fights human trafficking through its community development work around the globe.

For example, CRWRC's work in Bangladesh on this issue focuses on the prevention of trafficking by raising awareness about the problem among the most vulnerable people and by empowering communities to better protect themselves. Information about the causes of trafficking, the perpetrators, likely sources and destinations, and existing anti-trafficking laws are presented through the medium of theater and during lessons at weekly community meetings. (Visit the sidebar on the right to view a slideshow from our own Peter Vander Meulen's recent visit to these meetings.)

CRWRC also improves the capacity of community leaders to combat trafficking through leadership trainings and the establishment of local justice committees. The committees collect data on local trafficking and then develop an action plan to end trafficking in the community. Committees also serve as the link between the community and organizations that provide assistance to trafficking survivors.

God's calling to seek justice for the oppressed is extended not only to our Christian relief agencies but to all of us!  God commands all of his people to "seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow" (Isaiah 1:17-18). You too can raise your voice on behalf of the voiceless. Click here to learn more.