Today, December 2nd, is the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery- marking the anniversary of the UN’s adoption of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others (resolution 317(IV) in 1949.
This day calls for the awareness and eradication of modern-day slavery, including child labor, trafficking, sexual exploitation, forced marriage, and the use of children in armed conflict.
It also comes on the heels of the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, endorsed by the Human Rights Council earlier this year.
This implementation of the United Nations “Protect, Respect, and Remedy” framework provides businesses guiding principles on how to respect fundamental human rights.
“To eradicate contemporary forms of slavery, we need new strategies and measures that can unite all actors. While Governments bear the primary responsibility, the private sector has an integral role to play. Earlier this year, the Human Rights Council endorsed the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, outlining how states and businesses should implement the UN “Protect, Respect and Remedy” Framework. I welcome the widespread support it has received from the business sector,” said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his Message for the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery.
