Reality of trafficking raised in U.N Giftbox
THE U.N global initiative to fight human trafficking will be hosted in Dundalk tomorrow ( Wednesday).
The ‘Giftbox’ campaign is set to launch at 9a.m in St. Joseph’’s Redemptorist’s Church where hundreds of people are expected to view the exhibit that has travelled across the world to raise awareness about the reality of human trafficking.
The campaign is being brought to Dundalk by a group of dedicated local volunteers from the Marist college, the Redemptorist Fathers, Louth Leader Partnership and Dundalk St. Vincent De Paul.
Speaking about the importance of the campaign, Fr. Michael Cusack said: ‘ Trafficking in human beings is a gross violation of human right. It is a modern form of slavery, and an extremely profitable business for organised crime.’
He explained that the ‘Giftbox’ is a way of highlighting ‘ the promises made to people who are then trafficked.. promises of a new life, a job, and money, when the reality could be prostitution, or being used as cheap labour or for sham marriages.’
The Giftbox itself is a large walk-in public art installation aimed at raising awareness about victim’s experiences of being trafficked.
It will set up in the car park of the Redemptorist church throughout the day tomorrow.
‘We believe that the Gift box is a unique way to raise awareness of human trafficking, and by supporting the initiative, it provides an opportunity for schools, business and community groups to demonstrate their commitment to taking a stand against this terrible crime,’ said Fr. Cusack.
Since the launch of the cam- paign at the London 2012 Olympic Games it has travelled to over 100 locations across the country, and is on its final leg in Dundalk this week.
The exhibit, which aims to raise awareness about the reality of human trafficking, highlights how those most at risk are women and children.
It also reveals the stark reality that people are being trafficked in and out of almost every country in the world, including Ireland.
More than 20 million people are held in slavery for cheap labour, sexual exploitation, the theft of human organs, enforced street begging, and forced marriages.
Cllr. Liam Reilly, who is also a member of the local organising committee added: ‘ The terrible truth is that this is happening in Ireland today, and we want to create as much awareness about the dangers, particularly among young people.’
He said the giftbox was a very striking way to illustrate the deception practised by traffickers. ‘On the outside, it looks like a gift, the ideal to start a new life in another country. But inside the giftbox, the awful truth is revealed.’
All are welcome to go along to St. Joseph’s, where the U.N campaign will be on display.