CCBI Seeks Asian Collaboration to Combat Human Trafficking

Rome, October 17, 2026: The CCBI Commission for Migrants has explored stronger regional cooperation to address unsafe migration and human trafficking during a meeting with the Asia Team of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development in Rome.

Fr. Jaison Vadassery, Executive Secretary of the commission, led the delegation in discussions on developing coordinated responses to cross-border challenges and strengthening partnerships with other Asian countries.

The Dicastery’s Asia Team, led by Fr. Avelino Chico and Fr. Paolo Parisi, expressed support for the commission’s efforts. Fr. Chico assured the delegation of his backing for initiatives in India and closer regional collaboration.

Fr. Jaison thanked Sr. Alessandra Smerilli and Cardinal Fabio Baggio for their continued support for projects assisting migrants and displaced people in India.

He also recalled Cardinal Michael Czerny’s visit to Velankanni in November 2025. During the visit, Cardinal Czerny, then Prefect of the Dicastery, addressed a large gathering at the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health as part of the Jubilee of Migrants.

The discussions also explored future capacity-building programmes to help Asian countries tackle unsafe migration and human trafficking.

The meeting took place at 11 am on 15 October at the Dicastery’s office in Palazzo San Calisto, Rome. Fr. Shibu Mathew Pullayil represented the commission alongside Fr. Jaison. Other participants included Fr. Paolo Parisi, Ms. Pasco, Ms. Flamina and Fr. Joseph Savarimuthu.

By Catholic Connect Reporter