UN Chief Calls for Global Action to Eradicate Modern Slavery on Abolition Day
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged the global community to intensify efforts to combat modern slavery, condemning egregious abuses such as human trafficking, forced labor, sexual exploitation, and forced marriage.
In a message shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Guterres called these practices "outrageous abuses" that have no place in the 21st century. Marking the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, he appealed for collective action to detect, report, and eradicate contemporary forms of enslavement.
“Trafficking, forced labour, sexual exploitation, and forced marriage—these outrageous abuses have no place in the 21st century,” Guterres emphasized. “Let’s join forces to detect, report & abolish all contemporary forms of slavery.”
According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), an estimated 50 million people worldwide are trapped in modern slavery, with 27.6 million enduring forced labor and 22 million in forced marriages.
Vulnerable populations, including women, children, and migrants, are disproportionately affected, often subjected to exploitation in industries such as agriculture, construction, and domestic work.
Human trafficking remains a central component of modern slavery, generating billions in illicit profits while devastating lives.
Victims are frequently lured with false promises of employment or education, only to face exploitation in inhumane conditions.
The Secretary-General’s statement comes amid ongoing UN initiatives to address these challenges.
Programmes such as the Global Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons and the UN Trust Fund for Victims of Contemporary Forms of Slavery provide support to survivors and strengthen international cooperation against perpetrators.
Guterres’ call for vigilance highlights the role of individuals and communities in tackling slavery. Experts stress the importance of reporting suspicious activities and supporting organizations that aid survivors.
As the world observes the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, the UN chief's plea underscores an enduring truth: ending modern slavery is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative to protect human dignity and freedom in the modern era.
