International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, an annual observance established by the United Nations, aims to raise awareness of the need to eradicate modern forms of slavery. These include human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, and the worst forms of child labour. The day also serves to remind us of the importance of promoting and protecting the rights of those who have been subjected to this heinous practice, which continues to be a global issue.

The UN General Assembly first declared December 2nd as the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery in 1986, based on the date of the adoption of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others (1949). In the United Kingdom, the Modern Slavery Act 2015 was enacted to help combat this issue, consolidating previous offences related to trafficking and slavery. The Act increases the penalties for offenses and also provides support and protection for victims.

In the United Kingdom, International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is observed through various means, such as educational and informative events held by schools, universities, and local organisations to raise awareness of the ongoing problem of modern-day slavery. Furthermore, non-governmental organisations and charitable groups work alongside the government in their efforts to address and combat this issue. By coming together on December 2nd, the people of the United Kingdom can support and contribute to the elimination of modern slavery, in line with global efforts to create a world free from this terrible practice.