Holy See emphasizes human dignity in fight against organized crime

The Holy See has issued a call for a response to transnational organized crime that prioritizes human dignity and the protection of vulnerable populations. In a statement prepared for the 13th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, the Holy See emphasized that efforts must move beyond punishment to include prevention and protection.

Key priorities identified include preventing criminal groups from recruiting and exploiting youth, particularly through drug trafficking. The Holy See highlighted the role of education, parents, schools, and religious organizations in helping young people resist criminal networks.

The statement also addressed migrant smuggling and human trafficking, specifically noting the need to distinguish between victims forced into criminal activities and those who profit from exploitation. Additionally, the Holy See raised concerns regarding cyber-slavery, where individuals are lured into online schemes to participate in financial fraud and other crimes.