Slavery and human trafficking may sound like issues of a different time. However, people, particularly women and children, are forced into exploitative situations for other’s profit every day around the world. Modern-day slavery and human trafficking are real global problems that also affect Papua New Guinea. The Salvation Army facilitated a three-day workshop in May to introduce its officers at their Koki Office in Port Moresby to these concepts. The workshop focused on identifying potential victims, provide referral pathways, and help survivors reintegrate into their communities and restore livelihoods. Commander of the South-Central Division of The Salvation Army, Major Muru Igoto, said; “The key takeaways for me were learning about a range of strategic responses such as prayer, policy, relationships, prevention, and protection.” “And understanding how the work we do protects vulnerable men, women, and children.” Since completing the training, Major Muru has been making plans to implement awareness activities in communities around Koki and Badili in Port Moresby and in Papa Lealea in the Central Province. Major Muru is having conversations with primary schools, community leaders and even looking at opportunities during church activities to create awareness of the issues. “Many people don’t know about this issue, especially parents.” “For example, their daughter can be employed but paid very little and expected to sleep at work and not come home.” “These are signs of potential modern-day slavery that don’t align with community values and expectations.” “So together with my team, we’re planning to roll out awareness programs.” Major Muru said the Salvation Army’s efforts will help people in their communities’ notice and identify the various signs of modern-day slavery and human trafficking and understand how to act against it. Since establishing a working committee in 2022, the Salvation Army has been delivering similar trainings in other parts of Papua New Guinea and there are plans for more later this year. The Salvation Army hopes that discussions from the upcoming Church Partnership Program Forum will provide opportunities to collaborate and grow greater awareness and action in response to modern-day slavery and human trafficking. The Salvation Army’s work is supported by the Australian Government.