190 Years Since Slavery Abolition: Progress and Unfinished Struggles

human rights, history

Cobalt mine, Shabara Congo, January 2023

William Wilberforce, an evangelical Christian and a member of the Parliament, succeeded in turning public opinion against the slave trade. In 1807, it became illegal to trade slaves in British ships or from British ports, and in 1833 the Emancipation Act abolished slavery throughout the British Empire. The abolition of slavery stands as one of humanity's greatest achievements, marking a pivotal moment in history where the chains of oppression were shattered.

Yet, despite the progress made, it is with heavy hearts that we must acknowledge the persistent existence of modern slavery in our world today. While we celebrate the past, it is imperative that we confront the present and work towards a future where every individual is truly free.

The Triumph of Abolition

Image of slave boy in Zanzibar 1890, Source: Wikipedia.org

The fight to eradicate slavery from our societies was a long and arduous struggle. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the efforts of abolitionists, enlightened thinkers and brave individuals led to the eventual abolition of legal slavery in most countries. Powerful movements such as the transatlantic abolitionist movement and the activism of figures like William Wilberforce and Harriet Tubman paved the way for significant change. The emancipation of slaves marked a profound moment of progress for humanity, heralding the recognition of basic human rights and the principles of equality and freedom.

Modern Slavery: A Persistent Scourge

Sadly, the victory against historical slavery does not mean an end to the grave issue. Modern slavery persists in various forms, often hidden beneath the surface of our daily lives. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), an estimated 25 million people worldwide are trapped in forced labor, while millions more suffer from other forms of exploitation such as human trafficking, debt bondage and child labor. The prevalence of modern slavery highlights the deep-rooted structural inequalities and economic disparities that persist across the globe.

Image: Bangalore India, women forced to work Credit: IJM.org

According to Siddharth Kara, a human trafficking and modern slavery expert who visited the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2021, at the Shabara mine, some 15,000 artisanal miners work in ‘sub-human conditions’. The local population has been displaced under duress and they dig in absolutely sub-human, gut-wrenching conditions for a dollar a day with no with no access to safety equipment or proper training. The Shabara mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo has become a stark example of the dire working conditions endured by thousands of artisanal miners. 

Factors Fueling Modern Slavery

Modern slavery thrives in a complex web of factors that facilitate its existence. Poverty, lack of education, armed conflicts, corruption and weak governance are among the many contributing elements that enable the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. Additionally, globalization and the demand for cheap labor and goods create a breeding ground for unscrupulous practices, as supply chains extend across borders and regulations are often inadequate to address the issue.

Marginalized groups, including migrants, refugees and indigenous populations, are particularly vulnerable to modern slavery. It is essential to shed light on the various forms modern slavery takes in today's world. Forced labor is pervasive, with victims working in agriculture, manufacturing, construction, cobalt or gold mines, domestic work and the sex industry.

Human trafficking, a grave violation of human rights, involves the recruitment, transportation, and exploitation of individuals, often across national borders. The use of child labor continues to rob millions of children of their innocence, education, and future prospects. These hidden faces of modern slavery demand our attention and collective action.

The Bottom Line

The battle against modern slavery requires a multifaceted approach that addresses its root causes, strengthens legal frameworks and empowers communities. Governments, civil society organizations and the private sector must work together to enact and enforce robust laws that protect the rights of all individuals, combat human trafficking and hold perpetrators accountable.

International cooperation and collaboration are vital in dismantling transnational criminal networks involved in modern slavery. Economic and social initiatives aimed at eradicating poverty, promoting education, and ensuring fair labor practices are crucial in preventing exploitation. As we commemorate the triumphs of the past in abolishing slavery, we must recognize the urgency to address the persisting challenge of modern slavery.

It is our moral duty to fight for the freedom and dignity of every individual, irrespective of their background or circumstance. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and fostering collaboration, we can pave the way for a world where modern slavery is nothing but a dark chapter in our shared history. Together, let us strive towards a future where liberty and justice truly prevail.

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