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VIVAT International Commemorates 25 Years with Global Justice Workshop in Geneva
Richard Quadros, SVD (General JPIC Coordinator)
This year, VIVAT International celebrates a significant milestone—its Silver Jubilee. A jubilee year holds deep meaning: it is both a time of reflection and renewal, and the jubilarian serves not only as a messenger but as a message in itself. For VIVAT International, that message is clear and compelling: Another World is Possible. This vision reaches beyond economic progress, aiming instead for a just, peaceful, and inclusive society—one in which the human person and holistic well-being stand at the very core.
To commemorate twenty-five years of this transformative mission, a special workshop was held in Geneva, Switzerland, on 17 October 2025.
Professor Veuthey, Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta, opened the session with a powerful reflection on human trafficking—a modern form of slavery that demands urgent and united action. He reminded participants that the Palermo Protocol, adopted by the United Nations in 2000, was introduced to address this grave, escalating crime often perpetuated by transnational networks. This focus deeply resonates with the SVD’s 19th General Chapter, which urges confreres to collaborate in ending such grave injustices.
Following this, Mr. Stéphane Jaquemet, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Policy at the International Catholic Migration Commission, explored Migration as a Human Rights Concern in Catholic Social Teaching. He encouraged participants to view migration through the lens of Catholic social thought, calling both governments and individuals to respond with compassion and responsibility to the plight of migrants and refugees. This is especially timely in light of the SVD 19th General Chapter’s recommendation for increased commitment in ministries serving migrants and displaced persons.
Ms. Gaia Mormina, from the Scalabrinian Sisters’ Congregation, offered practical insights based on the congregation’s extensive involvement in global migration and pastoral care initiatives.
The workshop was graced by the presence of Sr. Maria Angelika Altenhofen, SSpS, President of VIVAT International, and Fr. Alain Mayama, CSSp, Vice President, along with several representatives from other international faith-based organizations. The Society of the Divine Word was represented by Fr. Richard Quadros, SVD, Generalate JPIC Coordinator.
The gathering concluded with a renewed and collective call—to walk in solidarity, to stand for justice, and to carry forward the flame of hope.
