Pope Francis and Cardinal Pietro Parolin highlight the work done by church initiatives such as Talitha Kum and the Santa Marta Group in fighting this global scourge.

Addressing a panel discussion, Ambassador Derek Hannon described the nuns’ advocacy as “vital and occasionally dangerous” and said it was work the Irish government supported both morally and financially.

Prestigious honour recognises Sr Imelda Poole’s "outstanding service in combatting human trafficking and modern slavery".