Global Freedom Network marks 10 years, calls for end to modern slavery

By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi

The Global Freedom Network (GFN) has marked its 10th anniversary with a major international conference in Accra, under the theme ‘Faith in Action Against Modern Slavery.’

The event brought together faith leaders, government representatives, civil society partners, survivors and international delegates to reflect on a decade of interfaith collaboration and renew commitment to the fight against modern slavery in all its forms.

Delivering her keynote address, Franca Pellegrini, Head of the Global Freedom Network, described the gathering as a powerful testament to the strength of faith communities in confronting one of the world’s gravest moral challenges.

“It is a profound honour to stand before you here in Accra. Today, we come together as people of faith and conscience united by a single purpose: to uphold the dignity and freedom of every human being,” Ms Pellegrini said.

She expressed heartfelt appreciation to survivors of modern slavery present at the event, acknowledging their courage and leadership as central to the progress of the movement. “Your wisdom and resilience continue to guide and strengthen everything we do,” Ms Pellegrini noted.

Reflecting on GFN’s journey, Ms Pellegrini recalled its historic beginnings in December 2014 when twelve global religious leaders gathered at the Vatican to sign a declaration committing to eradicate modern slavery within a generation.

“That moment was more than symbolic. It signalled that slavery is a moral crisis and that faith communities, grounded in compassion, must be at the forefront of ending it,” she stated.

Over the past decade, the GFN has mobilised faith leaders across continents, providing them with tools to recognise and respond to forced labour, human trafficking and child marriage. It has also supported survivor-led initiatives and forged partnerships with governments and civil society to influence laws, strengthen prevention efforts and promote ethical practices.

“Numbers matter, but stories stay with us. In Kenya, Christian and Muslim leaders have worked together to challenge child marriage. In West Africa, faith networks have used messages of faith and dignity to fight forced and child marriage in schools, marketplaces and places of worship. These stories remind us that faith, when turned into action, transforms lives and communities,” Ms Pellegrini remarked.

She cautioned that despite progress, the task ahead remains immense, with an estimated 50 million people worldwide still living in modern slavery.

“Slavery continues to evolve, adapting to conflict, climate change and inequality. We cannot be complacent; our response must match the scale of the problem,” Ms Pellegrini added.

Outlining the Network’s priorities for the next decade, Ms Pellegrini emphasised three focus areas: placing survivors at the centre of decision-making; scaling up proven interfaith and grassroots initiatives; and investing in the next generation of faith leaders and advocates.

“Faith matters because it shapes values and inspires action. Collaboration is non-negotiable because no single faith or organisation can end slavery alone. And commitment must be lived, not just declared,” she stated.

Ms Pellegrini concluded with a call to action: “Faith leaders, let your pulpits be platforms for freedom. Government officials, let your policies uphold human dignity. Civil society, keep innovating. Survivors, your leadership lights the way. Together, we can bring freedom, dignity and justice to all.”