To mark the 25th anniversary of the Palermo Protocol, the Order of Malta’s Ambassador to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons Michel Veuthey, Praeveni Global, the Santa Marta Group, and the Institute of Anthropology of the Pontifical Gregorian University will host a high-level conference in Rome on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the Pontifical Gregorian University, from 09:15 to 16:40.
Twenty-five years after the adoption of the Palermo Protocol, human trafficking remains widespread and is even growing. In 2023, the Global Slavery Index estimated that 50 million people are currently trafficked globally, generating over $236 billion in criminal benefit annually. Tens of thousands of children, women, and men lose their lives each year because of forced labour.
The Honorable Pam Bondi, Attorney General of the United States, together with high dignitaries of the Order of Malta, H.E. the Grand Chancellor, Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo, and H.E. the Grand Hospitaller, Josef D. Blotz, as well as high-level representatives of governments, international organizations, and civil society, will gather to discuss the most effective ways to implement the legal standards already at our disposal and to mobilize greater resources in order to launch genuine, on-the-ground actions to eradicate this scourge.
Human trafficking stands among the gravest crimes of our time. It is a total denial of human dignity and fundamental rights. This conference aims to mark a decisive turning point, driving governments toward a far broader global awakening and a renewed commitment to decisive action.
At the heart of the event will be the insights, field experience, and operational work of key stakeholders engaged daily in supporting victims and combating trafficking networks.
Contact: Dott. Cesare Lombardo, c.lombardo@orderofmalta.int
Accreditation Procedure
Journalists and media operators who wish to participate must apply, no less than 24 hours before the event, through the Holy See Press Office online Accreditation System available at: //press.vatican.va/accreditamenti
