ETHICAL ANTI-TRAFFICKING PRACTICES: Guiding Principles for Faith-Based Organizations

ETHICAL ANTI-TRAFFICKING PRACTICES: Guiding Principles for Faith-Based Organizations

ETHICAL ANTI-TRAFFICKING PRACTICES: Guiding Principles for Faith-Based Organizations

This document is a set of guidelines for Faith Based Organisations (FBOs) created by a diverse group of practitioners from various countries and faith backgrounds, facilitated by the Global Learning Community. The guiding principles in this document have been outlined as indispensable for faith-based organisations as they engage in antihuman trafficking work. They recognise the unique strengths of faith-based approaches while addressing the distinct challenges that come with integrating faith into trauma-informed (TIC) (see Glossary page 17) and survivor-centred care (see Glossary page 18). Clear ethical guidelines ensure that faith serves as a source of comfort, empowerment, and restoration, rather than as a means of control or re-traumatisation. By integrating faith with a deep respect for religious freedom and diversity, FBOs can provide compassionate, respectful, and effective support, demonstrating the profound potential of faith to foster hope and renewal in the lives of survivors. This approach safeguards the dignity, autonomy and safety of every individual served by prioritising survivor agency and preventing the risk of unintentional harm through wellmeaning but misguided actions, such as imposing beliefs, disparaging other faiths, or requiring religious participation for access to services.

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