January 1st 2015 will mark the World Day of Peace. That day, the Pope will denounce the fact that worldwide, roughly 30 million people are exploited every year.
The theme is 'Slaves no More, but Brothers and Sisters. The text highlights that there are many forms of slavery, from forced labor, to sexual exploitation and even the sale and trade of organs.
The Pope will make a call to action, asking governments to protect human dignity and to pass laws and regulations that will stop the abuse. He will also call for workers rights to be protected.
CARD. PETER TURKSON
President, Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
'Some people work without having a contract, so they can be fired at any moment. There are many situations where human slavery exists. States should be more active in protecting victims of human trafficking.â?
Promoting global fraternity, says the Pope will be key in making this goal a reality.
CARD. PETER TURKSON
President, Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
'What the Church can do is to call on reason, values and humanity. The main point of the message is to stress that promoting human fraternity is the best way of protecting human dignity.â?
The Pope also wants consumers to avoid buying products that were made through forced labor. A purchase he says, is not only about economics, but also about morality.
The World Day of Peace is celebrated every year on January 1st. Pope Paul VI was the first Pontiff to celebrate it, roughly 50 years ago.
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