The FIFA World Cup, which is taking place in Germany, has not only its bright but also its dark side. We can see that when we learn that about 40,000 women will be coming to Germany to work as prostitutes, often against their will and under pressure.
Churches and other organisations have already drawn attention to this scandal. The Salvation Army has allied itself with those who are speaking out against this situation and who are seeking to offer aid to these exploited women.
In 2004 an international conference of Salvation Army leaders issued a declaration against human trafficking and sexual exploitation (see links below).
Our international mission teams will draw attention to the darker side of what is otherwise a time of happy celebration in sporting events by distributing leaflets in all the cities hosting World Cup matches. The cynical practice of sexually exploiting and oppressing women must not be ignored.
Territorial Commander, Germany and Lithuania
