International Day Of Abolition Of Slavery: Ending Modern Exploitation, Protecting Human Dignity
The above article by Tanishka Sharma was published on the 30th of November by NGOFeed (India)
To read the whole article go to https://ngofeed.com/blog/international-day-for-the-abolition-of-slavery/
The International Day for the Abolition of Slaveryis observed every year on 2 December, the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is a global reminder that, while traditional slavery has been abolished in law, it continues to exist in new and hidden forms. While slavery may seem like a painful chapter of history, today’s world still battles systems that trap individuals in cycles of forced labour, trafficking, child exploitation and bondage. The day encourages awareness, prevention and strong support for survivors, ensuring that freedom is not just a legal right, but a lived reality for everyone.
Modern slavery affects millions of people worldwide, taking away their freedom, dignity and basic human rights. This day urges the international community, governments, NGOs and citizens to recognize the ongoing crisis and take collective action to eliminate all forms of exploitation.
The International Labour Movement (ILO) tells us that modern slavery is on the rise with 10 million more people being in forced labour or forced marriages in 2021 than 2016
Modern slavery occurs in almost every country in the world, and cuts across ethnic, cultural and religious lines. More than half (52 per cent) of all forced labour and a quarter of all forced marriages can be found in upper-middle income or high-income countries.
- An estimated 50 million people are in modern slavery, including 28 million in forced labour and 22 million in forced marriage.
- Almost one in eight of all those in forced labour are children. More than half of these children are in commercial sexual exploitation.
- Most cases of forced labour (86 per cent) are found in the private sector.
- Almost four out of five of those in forced commercial sexual exploitation are women or girls.
A world without slavery is possible. By standing together, raising awareness and protecting vulnerable communities, we can build a future where every person lives with dignity, freedom and hope.
A Prayer for Freedom and Courage
Let us pray
O God of justice and compassion,
We lift up to you all those who are trapped in the chains of modern slavery—
Those forced into labour, those exploited, those whose dignity and freedom have been stolen.
Grant them hope, strength, and the assurance that they are not forgotten. We ask for healing for survivors, protection for the vulnerable, And courage for those who work to rescue and restore.
Open our eyes to the hidden suffering in our world.
Stir our hearts to act—
To raise awareness, to speak out, to support efforts that end exploitation,
And to build a world where every person lives with dignity, freedom, and hope.May we never be silent in the face of injustice.
Empower us to be agents of change,
So that together, we may bring about a future without slavery.
May it be so AMEN
