In a meeting with other faith leaders , Francis called slavery a ` ` crime against humanity '' Christian , Muslim , Jewish , Buddhist and Hindu representatives sign declaration . By signing , they pledge to support action to end slavery by the year 2020 . Global Slavery Crisis : More than 35 million people are in bondage worldwide .
In a panel with other faith leaders , Francis calls slavery a `` crime against humanity '' Christian , Muslim , Jewish , Buddhist and Hindu representatives sign declaration . By signing , they pledge to support action to eradicate slavery by the year 2020 . Global Slavery Index : More than 35 million people are in bondage worldwide .