Two centuries after the abolition of slavery, and at a time when more human rights laws than ever are in force, the exploitation of human beings not only continues, but has taken on terrible dimensions worldwide. Slavery and slave markets – in a new form, with women and children as their principal victims – have not only returned to our “civilised” world, but our “civilization” has displayed such a degree of tolerance towards them that they have become one of the most profitable businesses in the world
It’s time to end human trafficking now! The time has come to show zero tolerance for this new and shameful form of slavery, by committing ourselves to the fight against human trafficking; for this we will make all necessary sacrifices.
The message we want to send to the world from this Round Table, which Athens has the honour to host, is that the business community can take the lead in this fight. I am certain that the code of ethical principles, which will be signed by the successful and distinguished businessmen who have come to Athens from all over the world specifically for this purpose, can become the point of reference for a change of mentality regarding human trafficking, not only within the business community, but throughout society. I am certain that it can and will become the guiding light for societies which will respect human dignity, and will oppose any attempt to repress humanitarian values and humanity itself.