Princess Eugenie of York has shared a heartfelt plea as she lends her support to The Salvation Army's campaign to stop modern slavery. The 26-year-old opened up about a visit to India with her parents where she met a group of women who had fallen victim to trafficking, but have since been rescued.
"I think that was so shocking," she explained in an exclusive interview with the charity’s Director of Anti Trafficking and Modern Slavery, Anne Read. "[Modern slavery is] on our own doorstep when you think it is a million miles away.
"I was completely astounded by the victims. These people were strong, happy… these girls really showed me how to grab life and appreciate things. If they can do it, after what they’ve been through, it’s a huge lesson for people to learn. "They are courageous, and everyone who works within modern slavery and who tries to fight for people who don’t have a voice, are courageous."
Princess Beatrice's sister also explained why she has chosen to back the campaign and work to raise awareness of the crim, which has seen a fivefold rise in victim referrals since 2011.
"The campaign in general is brilliant," she said. "It’s something to make people think, and make people listen and have a look and see what they can do to ask the question. "I think raising awareness is such a huge part of modern slavery because no one knows it’s going on as much as it is. There are more slaves now than there were in William Wilberforce’s time and I think it’s such a huge problem but everyone can do their part to try and effect change."
Eugenie's latest video comes a week and a half after she released an impassioned video - on behalf of the Salvation Army - in which she spoke about her involvement with the cause for the first time.
"I think it's everyone's opportunity and duty to #askthequestion and to support this campaign in any way possible," she said.