Piotr Kowalczuk
Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Human Trafficking
Archbishop Balestrero pointed out that in a world marked by wars, terrorism, human trafficking, and widespread aggression, it is particularly important for children, victims of human trafficking, to experience a culture of life, dialogue, and respect. He emphasized the importance of prevention, protection, and rehabilitation of minors. The hierarch, also the apostolic nuncio to the UN, called for dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Human Trafficking in the context of migration, forced displacement, and stateless persons, especially concerning women and children.
Minors are always victims, even when circumstances force them to commit a crime
The representative of the Holy See emphasized that establishing safe migration routes and granting potential victims who do not have citizenship of any country would help combat the practice. He indicated that “the role of the family is fundamental, especially through family reunification and the protection of unaccompanied minors.” He recalled that if human trafficking “is a modern form of slavery and a serious violation of human dignity given by God,” as Pope Leo XIV writes in the encyclical “Magnifica humanitas,” then a minor victim of human trafficking is primarily “a victim who deserves protection, compassion, and assistance, as well as the possibility of rehabilitation, and not punishment for acts resulting from exploitation. The criminals are the traffickers, not the children.”
The development of “cyber-slavery” is a cause for concern
Finally, Archbishop Balestrero noted that some online platforms pose a serious threat. He said that “cyber-slavery,” which traps victims in scams and criminal activities such as online fraud and drug trafficking, is “particularly disturbing.” He cited the words of Leo XIV, who wrote in his Message for the XII World Day of Prayer and Reflection on Combating Human Trafficking, celebrated on February 8, 2026, that criminal networks often use online platforms and anonymous channels to recruit, control, and transport their victims, very often minors.
