Maynooth 2024: Human Trafficking — Justice and Faith Perspectives

Santa Marta Group partnered with the Institute for Social Concerns (University of Notre Dame, USA), and St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth (Ireland), to host a full-day conference on Human Trafficking: Justice and Faith Perspectives.

We brought a varied audience of academics, clergy, diplomats, law enforcement, religious sisters, and NGOs to hear expert thoughts from a range of angles.

Frances Fitzgerald, former TD of Ireland and MEP presented on the European context, with a focus on justice for women and girls.

Sr Abby Avelino, International Coordinator of Talitha Kum spoke on their network of religious sisters covering 107 countries and providing front-line care and support.

Detective Chief Superintendent of the Garda National Protective Services Bureau presented on his force’s work investigating cases around Ireland. He stressed the reality that this is an Irish problem at a local level – happening even in small towns like Maynooth – but equally it is often a transnational crime, and therefore requires collaboration internationally.

Kevin Hyland presented on the global context, presenting the Santa Marta Group’s 6-point strategic plan for meaningful long-lasting change, and on his work influencing the G20 summit in Brazil 2024.

Theologian Dr Ethna Regan grounded the discussion in Catholic Social Teaching, drawing on the words of Pope Francis which compel us to action.

This event was a valuable opportunity for anti-trafficking actors across Ireland and beyond to connect and look to the future on collaborative action. We are grateful to St Patrick's Maynooth for the hospitality, and to the Institute for Social Concerns for the support in hosting this event.