2010

Friday 20 August 2010
Australia a destination for trafficked people

Concerns around refugees and asylum seekers have received much attention in recent weeks, but a related social justice issue is not nearly so well canvassed.

One of today's biggest human rights crises is the international trafficking of women and girls, men and boys into slavery.

Human trafficking is the third largest criminal industry in the world, outranked only by arms and drug dealing. The United Nations estimates that trafficking in persons trade generates up to $32US billion annually for traffickers.

The number of people trafficked each year is estimated by most experts to be in the millions.

Before leaving England to become the colony of Australia's first governor, Captain Arthur Phillip said, “In a new country there will be no slavery and hence no slaves." However, in 2010 Australia is a destination for trafficked people. Women have been trafficked into Australia for sexual exploitation, domestic service, ‘mail-order brides', sweat shops and manufacturing. Men have been exploited into working in slave-like conditions in the construction and agriculture areas as well as hospitality. There have been some young children who have been trafficked for adoption.

Soon members of the local community will have the opportunity to hear Professor Jennifer Burn, an international lawyer from University of Technology Sydney, and Gary Kennedy, Secretary/Treasurer of Newcastle Trades Hall Council, speak on the topic of human trafficking.

The workshop, an initiative of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle Social Justice Council, will be held on Wednesday 8 September at the Toohey Room, Bishop Clarke House. There is no charge and all are welcome.

What: Workshop on Human Trafficking

When: Wednesday 8 September 1.30-3.30pm

Where: Toohey Room, Bishop Clarke House, 841 Hunter St Newcastle West.

Website : www.acrath.org.au <ends>

Media Enquiries: Communications Team Ph: (02) 4979 1136 or 0419 263 901 or Shirley McHugh, Social Justice Council member, 4968 9618.

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