Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking

Modern slavery and human trafficking (MSHT) are global crimes impacting local communities. The International Labour Organization estimate there are 50 million people living in modern slavery through labour exploitation, sexual exploitation, domestic servitude, forced marriage and forced criminality.

Churches, faith communities and charities are increasingly encountering these victims and survivors through grassroots community engagement. Faith communities can play a vital role in victim identification, safeguarding, developing community resilience and practically caring for survivors of modern slavery. This course will explore theological and practical responses to modern slavery studying:

• Current contexts of MSHT including definitions, types and trends.
• Learning from the past, including the transatlantic slave-trade and (mis)use of the Bible in relation to slavery
• Theological responses and resources including theologies of liberation, suffering and inter-religious perspectives.
• The church’s emerging role in responding to MSHT. Case studies highlighting national and local responses will explore how communities are mobilised to partner towards slavery-free communities, including antislavery partnerships, survivor care, awareness campaigns and training.

A summer school in partnership with the Council for World Mission is being organised for the summer of 2025.

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