Equipping Trainers for Anti-Human Trafficking Action in Bangladesh
From 6-9 May 2025, the Church of Bangladesh hosted a “Training for Trainers” programme with support from USPG. The event brought together key church leaders including The Rt Revd Samuel Sunil Mankhin, Moderator of the Church of Bangladesh, and Bishop Hemen Halder of Kushtia and Chairman of the Anti-Human Trafficking Commission. Deans, priests, catechists, and health workers also participated.
The four-fay training took place in Mymensingh, East Baromari, a remote hilly border village in the Haluaghat Deanery, an area predominantly inhabited by the Garo community. Due to its location and demographics, the area is considered especially vulnerable to trafficking, making the gathering particularly timely and relevant.
The primary aim of the programme was to form a trained, united front to combat human trafficking across the Church’s workplaces and communities.
Opening the event, The Rt Revd Samuel Sunil Mankhin, Moderator of the Church of Bangladesh, offered a reflection on the biblical story of Joseph being sold by his brothers as an early instance of human trafficking. Drawing parallels to current realities, he stressed the importance of the Church’s mission in this area, urging participants to see the training as a worthwhile step in their mission and ministry.
Bangladesh currently ranks third globally in human trafficking, up from fourth in 2020–21, highlighting the country’s increasing vulnerability. In response, the Church of Bangladesh is stepping up efforts to raise awareness and offer protection and prevention from this evil.
Revd Jonerson Dio leading a session on Micah 6:8 – the biblical call for justice
Mrs Hanna Usha Chambugong, Programme Coordinator, led a session on the forms and signs of trafficking, helping participants recognise who is most at risk and how traffickers operate. Speaking in both Garo and Bengali, she ensured everyone could engage fully—particularly local women, who shared real-life stories of survival. The accounts underscored just how urgent and close to home the issue is.
Further inspiration came via Zoom from Raja Moses, Programme Director in the Diocese of Durgapur, Church of North India (CNI). Sharing examples from CNI’s anti-trafficking work, Mr Moses recounted recent roadside campaigns using posters and rickshaw-mounted loudspeakers to build local and administrative awareness.
Christianity must be remembered wherever one works,” he said. “It’s not just about rescue—it’s about changing the environment where trafficking thrives.
The Revd Davidson Solanki, Senior Regional Manager: Asia & the Middle East USPG, also joined the trainees on Zoom, to represent USPG’s continued partnership. The group left feeling inspired and motivated, with plans for quarterly Zoom meetings to ensure the training’s impact endures. This programme marks a significant step forward in the Church of Bangladesh’s commitment to justice, protection, and restoration for the most vulnerable.