In an enlightening interview with Vatican News, Monsignor Robert Vitillo, Secretary General of the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC), sheds light on the upcoming Consultation in the Vatican. This event, jointly sponsored by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, is set to address the crucial issues of worker rights and dignified conditions, with the goal of effecting meaningful social change.
By Deborah Castellano Lubov
The International Labour Organization champions a Global Social Justice Coalition dedicated to achieving Social Development Goals by 2030. Meanwhile, over the past six years, the International Catholic Migration Commission has been actively involved in a project named “The Future of Work: Labor After Laudato Si’.” This initiative shares similar goals and has brought together various Catholic organizations and faith-based entities in support of the coalition’s mission.
Monsignor Robert Vitillo discusses the imminent Consultation on Promoting “Care is work, work is care” toward Building a Global Transformative Community to contribute to the global development agenda. This event, set to take place on 8-10 May in the Vatican, will see international experts gather to engage in discussions aimed at fostering positive change.
During the interview, Monsignor Vitillo delves into the significance of the Consultation, its objectives, and the anticipated impact on critical issues related to workers’ well-being. Moreover, the expert participants will have the privilege of meeting Pope Francis before commencing their deliberations.
As they convene in Rome for this event, attendees will engage in dialogues centered around key themes concerning the future of work on a global scale. The focus areas include decent work in the food supply chain, extractive industries, social justice, dignity, inequality, migrant protection, and the environmental transition amidst economic and climate challenges.
The Consultation aims to adopt a synodal approach, emphasizing active listening and collaboration among a diverse group of academics, labor union representatives, members of the International Labour Organization, and various stakeholders. Drawing inspiration from the Holy Father’s teachings on the significance of caring work, the participants will work towards creating a roadmap for future initiatives that prioritize fair wages, decent work conditions, and worker-centered policies.
By emphasizing the importance of Pope Francis’ support and advocacy for social justice, Monsignor Vitillo underscores the value of uniting efforts towards a common goal. The alignment with the International Labour Organization’s coalition for social justice further amplifies the commitment to achieving social development goals by 2030.
As a seasoned advocate at the International Catholic Migration Commission, Monsignor Vitillo emphasizes the organization’s dedication to supporting vulnerable migrant workers and championing sustainable solutions for refugees. Highlighting the roadmap as a pivotal tool, he underscores the importance of addressing key issues like migrant worker justice, human trafficking prevention, and fair labor practices.
With the Consultation serving as a platform for collaboration and reflection, Monsignor Vitillo envisions a future where practical experiences, shared insights, and informed actions drive positive change towards a more just and transformative global community.
