Around 50 million people are victims of modern slavery, including 28 million victims of forced labor and 22 million victims of forced marriage. UN chief: Human trafficking, exploitation and forced marriage have no place in the 21st century Human Rights
50 million people around the world are trapped in appalling conditions as victims of human trafficking, forced labor, sexual exploitation or forced marriage, according to a message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres on the occasion of International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, which is marked on December 2.
“Around the world, criminals target those made vulnerable by poverty, discrimination and conflict – including women and children – to profit from immeasurable human suffering,” the UN chief recalled.
He stressed that “these outrageous acts of abuse have no place in the 21st century.” Not only do they constitute attacks on fundamental human rights, they also slow down development, perpetuate inequality and undermine sustainable economic growth, the Secretary-General said.
Guterres noted that the recently adopted Pact for the Future calls for the eradication of forced labour, an end to modern slavery and human trafficking, and the elimination of all forms of child labour.
He called on governments to strengthen law enforcement, ensure respect for human dignity, protect, release and support victims, and hold perpetrators accountable. In addition, businesses must ensure that there is no exploitation in their supply chains and promote fair and transparent labour practices.
“Wherever we are, let us join forces to identify, report and eradicate contemporary forms of slavery in all its forms,” the UN chief said.