I have been rather quiet here, for a number of reasons. I don’t like writing without having something to say, although this conviction has not really halted this post! I am frantically busy, and have too many “shoulds” and “musts” on my list. Blogging is not one of them.
Nevertheless, this caught my eye whilst perusing the ABC news website. Before I elaborate (please don’t follow the link yet), consider the media coverage for recent APEC gathering. I don’t believe I heard about anything other than the issue of security, with a few nasty protest moments. And a lovely story about the partners of heads of states off for a little fraternizing together. The official website boasts the following motto – “strengthening our communities – building a sustainable future”. Of course, strengthening communities and sustaining our future is all about money. Let there be no confusion – the “E” in APEC does not stand for the environment, or equality, or any other noble “e” word. The economy is god. And the much heralded APEC event has given Sydney’s red light economy a good boost. Apparently in the weeks leading up to the event phones were running hot for Sydney brothels, as the delegates frantically tried to set up discrete dalliances to tide them through the two days. APEC offers included “the Presidential Platter”, and the “United Nations double”. Mixing business and pleasure. Tell me, how does this strengthen communities and builds sustainable futures? What does it mean for the women left at home in the various countries represented by APEC? For our Australian women? Just further evidence of the brokenness of our world.
Sojourn 
this grieves me so…i’m sure this takes advantage of not only Australian women, but those trafficked into the country as well. as followers of christ we have to move to set the captives free and release the oppressed. the wealthier nations have become large-scale importers of sex slaves…and this utterly sickens me. we have been fighting against this for a few years (i cannot believe it took 3 years for my own American State of Maryland to pass legislation to make human trafficking a criminal act!!). here is a link to my most recent post on this:
http://verveandverse.blogspot.com/2007/09/when-enemies-pursue-me-to-devour-my.html
check out the links in the comments by kevin bales as well…and let’s end modern-day slavery and the degradation and abuse of women, men and children around the world! even so, come Lord Jesus…
peace…thanks for the links to the stories…the same is happening here in the US at major conventions and meetings…
Thanks for your comment Steven. Sorry to take so long to respond – we have been without phone and internet for a week and a half – I have got behind with online life in general! It amazes me that human trafficking took so long to become a criminal act in your state. It is such a wrong act that there should be no debate or question about it. Our nations seem much more concerned with economy and security than people…