Bangladeshi nuns launch fresh push against online exploitation after global training

The Talitha Kum training highlighted how traffickers are increasingly using digital technologies, social media and online platforms to recruit and exploit vulnerable people.

Two Bangladeshi Catholic sisters returned from an international leadership training programme determined to strengthen efforts against human trafficking, particularly the growing threat posed by online exploitation, digital scams and artificial intelligence.

Sr Suporna Rozario of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary, secretary of Talitha Kum Bangladesh, and Sr Jaclin Gomes of the Sisters of Charity of Saints Bartolomea Capitanio and Vincenza Gerosa attended the Talitha Kum Leadership Training Course in Bangkok, Thailand, on 24-30 June.

The programme brought together participants from 23 countries and focused on equipping religious sisters and lay leaders to respond to evolving forms of human trafficking.

For Sr Rozario, one of the most significant aspects of the training was learning leadership skills needed to combat trafficking in an increasingly complex world.

“Human trafficking is a huge concern, especially in our country,” she said. “It was wonderful to meet Talitha Kum leaders from 23 countries and learn how they are tackling human trafficking in different contexts.”

She said the experience reinforced her conviction that trafficking is “modern-day slavery” and that working for the freedom and dignity of victims is essential to building a just society.

The Bangkok training highlighted how traffickers are increasingly using digital technologies, social media and online platforms to recruit and exploit vulnerable people. Participants examined the dangers posed by online scams, fraudulent recruitment offers and other forms of digital manipulation that particularly affect young people.

“The new way of human trafficking, online human trafficking, is increasing widely, especially among the young who are becoming victims very easily,” Sr Rozario said. “Online scams are scary. I would like to work in this area to prevent human trafficking.”

On returning to Bangladesh, she said one of her priorities will be reaching young people through awareness programmes in schools and youth groups, helping them recognise online risks and protect themselves from exploitation.

Sr Gomes said the training broadened her understanding of leadership and strengthened her commitment to serving vulnerable communities.

“The most valuable lesson I gained was that leadership is rooted in service, compassion, collaboration and personal integrity,” she said. “An effective leader is not only someone who guides others but also someone who listens deeply, empowers people and walks with those who are vulnerable with empathy and respect.”

She added that the programme challenged participants to adapt to changing realities, particularly the expanding role of digital technology in trafficking networks. The opportunity to meet anti-trafficking advocates from around the world also demonstrated the importance of international cooperation.

“The training strengthened my understanding that combating human trafficking requires a united global network,” Sr Gomes said. “Meeting participants from different countries broadened my perspective and showed me the power of intercultural collaboration, shared experiences and collective action in protecting human dignity.”

One experience that particularly impressed her was learning how Talitha Kum members in Bangkok have integrated anti-trafficking education into Catholic schools, helping students become more aware of the dangers of exploitation from an early age.

Inspired by the training, Sr Gomes plans to organise awareness sessions for students, parents, teachers and local communities in Bangladesh. These workshops will focus on online safety, including fake job offers, online grooming and fraudulent recruitment schemes.

She also hopes to strengthen partnerships among Church organisations, schools, non-governmental organisations and government agencies to improve prevention efforts and support survivors.

“Working together will help us reach more people, respond faster to trafficking cases and support survivors better,” she said.

Both emphasised the importance of empowering young people to become advocates against trafficking. Sr Gomes said she wants to encourage youth to act as peer educators and digital ambassadors who promote safe online behaviour and help protect others from exploitation.

Founded by the International Union of Superiors General, Talitha Kum is a worldwide network dedicated to preventing human trafficking, protecting victims and supporting survivors. In Bangladesh, the network works through awareness campaigns, education programmes and collaboration with Church and civil society partners.

Returning home with renewed commitment, the two sisters said leadership, education and collaboration will be essential in confronting emerging forms of trafficking.

“Preventing human trafficking is a shared responsibility,” Sr Gomes said. “Even small actions can make a real difference. I return with hope, renewed commitment and the determination to help build a safer and more dignified future for the people of Bangladesh.”

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