An international protocol on forced labour had entered into force this week in what has been described as a “major milestone” to end the practice.
The International Labour Organization Forced Labour Protocol requires countries to take effective measures to prevent and eliminate forced labour and to protect and provide access to justice for victims. It entered into force on 9th November, the same day Argentina became the 9th country to ratify it.
It is estimated that 21 million people around the world are victims of forced labour. They include farm workers, migrants, domestic workers, seafarers, females forced into prostitution and others who are exploited and abused and paid little or nothing. The ILO estimates that forced labour generates some $US150 billion in illegal profits every year.
Linda Kromjong, secretary-general of the International Organisation of Employers, said the protocol would make a difference in the lives of millions of men and women trapped in forced labour.
“We all have a role to play, and if we join forces, the end of forced labour is within reach,” she said.
Other nations to have ratified the protocol include Niger, Norway, the UK, Mauritania, Mali, France, Czech Republic, and Panama.
