Sao Paulo, July 7, 2024.- Between July 1 and 6, 2024, members of the Scalabrini International Migration Network (SIMN), the Scalabrinian Centers and Shelters, the Stella Maris Scalabrinian Network, and International Organizations met in São Paulo to address the situation of people in need of protection, with a particular focus on those exposed to forms of slave labor and human trafficking networks. Additionally, the event discussed the conditions faced by fishers and mechanisms to protect and promote the labor rights of these groups.

During the first two days, training workshops focused on the current challenges faced by refugees, migrants, and seafarers, as well as strategies to improve services aimed at these people on the move. In the following days, participants discussed strategies to respond to these challenges.

According to the Superior General of the Scalabrinian Congregation, Fr. Leonir Chiarello, CS, the objective of the event is to strengthen the institutions between the Scalabrinian networks, the SIMN, and the International Organizations: “We need to collaborate and strengthen ourselves through the spirit of synodality and always be attentive to new challenges so that our commitment as a Church is not only with the recipients of the Church’s services but as participants in a Church that is on its way and we are on its way with them.”