ILO:::Forced labour generates $150m yearly

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has stated that forced labour generates $150 billion profits every year.

Speaking on the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, the ILO stressed the need for leaders and people across the world to join forces to end slavery in the 21st century.

Describing profits generated from forced labour as illicit profit, the ILO said about two thirds of those profits are made from exploitation, mainly of women and children, in the sex and entertainment industry.

“The global tide against forced labour is rising and we have seen significant progress in ending this scourge. The job is not done yet, because modern slavery is still, unfortunately, big business and millions are suffering,” the organisation said.

It stated that slavery also brings profits to unscrupulous employers in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, mining, domestic work and other sectors, which harbour the majority of those subjected to forced labour.

The ILO pointed out that forced labour knows no geographical boundaries, as it touches lives in the North and South alike.

It said: “Headway has been made in the form of stronger laws and policies because workers have joined forces and organised themselves in sectors where forced labour persists.

“Companies have taken action to eliminate forced labour from their supply chains and there is a growing movement of citizens who call for an end to the suppression of and discrimination against their fellow citizens.”

Since the ILO called for a Global Alliance against Forced Labour in 2005, the worldwide movement against this inhuman practice has grown day by day; as leaders from governments, business, trade unions, the arts and the media have stood up and taken action.

However, the ILO emphasised the need to do more, saying, “We need to tackle the socioeconomic root causes of modern slavery, such as traditional land tenancy systems, as well as unregulated labour sourcing and recruitment practices.

“We need to improve the lack of access to education and skills for people, who live in poverty and suffer discrimination. We must fight the oppression of workers who seek to join trade unions and we must ensure stronger law enforcement to stop human trafficking once and for all.”

source:::http://www.tribune.com.ng