50 million people worldwide entrapped in modern slavery

Geneva: A recently published report by the UN highlights the sad reality of nearly 50 million people worldwide trapped in slavery. About 10 million have been added in the last five years. The UN report also mentions the atrocities against Uyghurs and other minority groups in China. According to the report, women and children have been significant victims of slavery.

The human rights groups of the United Nations, the International Labour Organization, the International Organization for Migration and the Walk Free have jointly presented a report titled Global Estimates of Modern Slavery, which laments that slavery has not ended in modern times. The report expresses strong regret as slavery violates human rights and cannot be justified in any way.

According to a report released in 2016, nearly 40 million people were trapped in slavery. However, 10 million people have been added to it in just five years. The report shows that slavery exists everywhere, irrespective of worldwide countries, religions, creeds, and cultures. At the same time, a grave concern is expressed about the increasing rate of slavery, even in countries that are considered modern and advanced.

More than 50% of citizens in developed and advanced countries are enslaved in forced labour. The report points out that 25% are trapped in forced marriages are from developed countries. According to the report, 86% of forced labour cases are in the private sector. The proportion of immigrants and refugees is the highest among them.

The UN report advises effective government policies and controls to end modern slavery. At the same time, the report appeals to trade unions, employers, companies, and society to take the initiative.