International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

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2023 Date2 December 2023
2024 Date2 December 2024

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International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery in
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International Day for the Abolition of Slavery serves to call global attention to the ongoing prevalence of modern slavery and human trafficking, reminding the international community of its responsibility to eradicate all forms of slavery. This observance is an essential platform to raise awareness, inspire action, and promote the development of effective strategies to eliminate such practices. The Observance focuses primarily on the contemporary manifestations of slavery, which persist in the form of forced labour, bonded labour, child labour, and human trafficking.

In South Africa, the history of slavery dates back to the arrival of European settlers in the 17th century. With the introduction of apartheid in 1948, lasting until 1994, racialised exploitation and oppressive labour practices were systematically institutionalised. Today, South Africans, along with the global community, continue to show solidarity in addressing the legacy of slavery and its modern iterations. This Observance is particularly significant as it serves as an opportunity for South Africans to reflect on this history, understand contemporary challenges, and work collectively to address the conditions that enable modern slavery to persist.

On December 2nd each year, International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is observed in South Africa, as in other parts of the world. In observance of this day, South Africans participate in educational events, awareness-raising campaigns, and community initiatives. Civil society organizations play a vital role in mobilizing action and highlighting areas where progress is needed. By standing united in the commitment to eradicate all forms of modern slavery, South Africa plays an essential role in contributing to a global movement for freedom, dignity, and respect for all individuals.

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Facts about this United Nations Observance

  • The International Labor Organization (ILO) estimates that 21 million people worldwide are victims of forced labor.
  • Brazil was the last country in the West to abolish slavery, which it did in 1888. Other parts of the world took even longer, with countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia abolishing slavery only in the 1960s.
  • Slavery might not exist in its historical form in South Africa, but the country is still grappling with modern-day slavery in the form of human trafficking. South Africa is considered a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking for the purposes of forced labor and sexual exploitation.
  • South Africa's apartheid system, which was enforced from 1948 to 1994, was a direct result of the longstanding racial inequality and divisions created by colonialism and slavery. The apartheid government created a separate system of laws and governance for different races, effectively maintaining the exploitation and disenfranchisement of the non-white population.

Top things to do in South Africa for this observance

  • Spread awareness by using the hashtags #InternationalDayforAbolitionofSlavery, #EndSlavery and #HumanRightsMatter.
  • Volunteer your time at a local rescue center for victims of human trafficking. These centers assist victims in sharing their stories, regaining their lives and dignity and helping to reduce this problem.
  • Use the day to advocate and demand greater attention to slavery-related issues. Write letters to policymakers, sign petitions, or join peaceful protests to raise awareness about the need for stronger laws, enforcement, and support for victims.
  • Support fair-trade products and businesses that promote ethical sourcing and ensure workers' rights. Buy products that are certified as slavery-free and encourage others to do the same.

References and related sites

www.unodc.org: UNODC Abolition of Slavery
www.un.org: Against Slavery Day

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