Most of the Moldovan Christian Churches have signed a Common Declaration underlining their desire to continue combating trafficking in human beings. The signing of the Declaration follows a series of information seminars in numerous regions of the country, the production of a video showing the trauma caused by trafficking, and the publishing of a guide for members of the clergy entitled,"Prevention of Trafficking in Human Beings through Clerical and Didactic Activities".
The Common Declaration is based on theological doctrines which on the one hand condemn trafficking in human beings as a sin, but on the other underline the need for a variety of social actors, from simple religious persons to governors, to be involved in order to prevent this crime. The declaration also calls on community, church and family to show greater tolerance and understanding towards victims of trafficking.
By signing the Declaration, the Coalition has pledged continuous involvement in trafficking prevention activities, including by the promotion of certain initiatives of the church at the community level.
To date there have been 35 community project applications for two grant competitions, of which 18 were chosen. These will be implemented during 2008; with a total budget of over $ 80.000.
As a result of these community projects, jobs will be created for vulnerable individuals and help will be given to children living in, and graduates from, residential institutions. Other projects will contribute to prevention of human trafficking through the establishment of community information centres in addition to information campaigns and social theatre presentations.
The On Sunday, 2nd December, the National Prayer Day, every member of the Coalition will hold services in all of their churches throughout the Republic for every Moldovan citizen who is willing to pray for those affected by migration; those planning to go abroad, those with family and friends living far away, and anyone affected by the crime of human trafficking.
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The actions have been realized by the Inter-Confessional Coalition for the Prevention of Trafficking in Human Beings in partnership with the International Organization for Migration, Mission to the Republic of Moldova (IOM Moldova) and Moldavian Christian Aid within the framework of the programme "Mobilization of Church Networks for the Prevention of Trafficking in Human Beings in Moldova. This Programme is implemented with the financial support of the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration (PRM) of the US State Department within the framework of the US President's Initiative for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings.