In Europe, JusticeLink is connecting people who have a passion to fight human trafficking with on-the-ground organisations already doing the work.
There are over 50 million individuals in the world, at any given moment, that face a situation of human trafficking. This means that people across our nations are intentionally exploited for the benefit and gain of another person. In most cases, this is done through forced labour, sex trafficking or forced marriages.
There are different means to tackle the phenomena; through prevention and awareness campaigns, connecting with those impacted and supporting individuals who have previously been trafficked. Jesus followers in many countries have pioneered work reaching out to vulnerable and marginalised people, including those affected by human trafficking.
The needs are many, therefore it takes intentionality and collaboration across different institutions, organisations and churches to tackle and answer the challenges human trafficking causes on a societal and individual level. The best results come from when we, as a network of like-minded people and organisations, each focus on what we’re strongest at.
Some of OM’s strengths are found in the organisation’s willingness to engage with churches across denominations, partner with like-minded organisations, reach out to people from all walks of life and — thanks to the international scope of OM — mobilise people worldwide into a life of sharing God’s love wherever they go. All of these strengths are found in JusticeLink.
Working together
In Europe, OM launched JusticeLink, an initiative to facilitate and build bridges between those with the interest and passion to serve within anti-human trafficking work and on-the-ground Christian organisations doing the work. Many local organisations are doing excellent work but lack the resources to spread the word about their needs. At the same time, there are many people from different professional or study backgrounds, that would love to contribute to be a part of combating human trafficking but find it challenging to find a suitable and fitting place to serve.
Take, for example, Elias and Elisabeth from Scandinavia. The couple wanted to find a place to serve where they could gain exposure and experience from anti-trafficking work. Elisabeth, a social worker student, had it on her heart to learn more profoundly what it could mean to work with women who have exited a life in prostitution. Her husband, Elias, is passionate about raising awareness about the subject while serving through his profession as a web designer. Through JusticeLink, the couple was connected with Nea Zoi, an organisation in Athens, Greece, where both found meaningful ways to serve with their unique giftings.
"Working with the organisation has given us the opportunity to work hands-on with victims of sex trafficking, whereas before, we have done preventative work,” the couple shared. “We have learnt more about victims and their various stories and how to meet them with love. Working hands-on has shown us even more how important attitude changes and knowledge about the issue is needed for real, lasting change in our world.
“It has also been nice to see how the organisation tackles the needs of the city in a practical and Jesus-centred way. It's beautiful how we as a community can bring God's light into some of the darkest spiritual places we know."
"For those of us committed to this critical work, it is evident that the relentless growth of human trafficking as a global criminal enterprise demands deeper collaboration and stronger partnerships among abolitionists,” said a Nea Zoi team member. “The addition of Elias and Elisabeth to our team in Athens brings an invaluable infusion of experience, knowledge, expertise and passion. Their presence not only enhances our collective response to this urgent issue but also exemplifies the truth that we are stronger together. It is through partnerships like these that our ministry thrives, and our effectiveness in the fight against trafficking is magnified."