The article "India tops slavery list, but activists see changes" (June 2) reports that the Walk Free Foundation has published a survey on the prevalence of slavery in the world today. After reading the article, I decided to read the entire survey to understand the methodology and the reasons for such widespread slavery. On the face of it, the figures present a stark outlook. Despite reforms and economic progress in India there are over 18.3 million slaves in the country. Even though, in terms of percentage, this amounts to only 1.4 percent of the total population and there are over 10 countries in the band of 1 - 1.5 percent, the number is still far too large. In terms of percentage, North Korea tops the list with over four percent of the total population faced with slavery with most of it being government-imposed slavery. It is difficult to understand or define modern slavery as the dimensions of slavery are different. As the report states, given the nature of modern slavery, it was difficult to get the required information. As in the case of North Korea, where it is almost impossible to get information about human rights violations, the figures might not be accurate, if not totally wrong. Slavery in any form is detestable and unacceptable and if that involves trafficking, then such acts fall in the criminal domain and are as heinous as homicide. However, where people are forced to work in professions which they do not like or for which they are physically and mentally incapable, such slavery is also a matter of concern. The survey mainly focused on bonded or indentured labor, child labor, domestic workers, especially boys and girls between 10-14 years of age, and girls being sold or married by force either by relatives or traffickers. Due to increased awareness and the active role of non-government organizations, things are changing in India for the better and child labor, bonded labor and forced labor are in decline as the report has pointed out. The employment of children in hazardous industries is a thing of the past and they are also not employed in work that involves hard labor. As long as laws and regulations remain on the shelves or in books, one cannot expect radical or desirable changes. The administration will have to become more active in handling complaints about slavery and act on them. They should even become proactive and arrange for the inspection of factories and fields. The judiciary needs to recognize the seriousness of the issue and consider imposing large fines and severe punishment for culprits so that such decisions act as a deterrent to others. There are several other measures that are necessary to eradicate slavery. Individuals and society at large will have to realize the fact that every human being, regardless of his race, color or creed is absolutely equal in all terms and respects. Thus, no human being should be asked to serve another human being against his/her wish. Furthermore, we need to recognize and promote the dignity of labor and appreciate that no work is inferior in any respect and human beings should not be abused, mistreated or discriminated against on the basis of their profession, race, creed or family. Since modern slavery mostly exists due to poverty and unemployment, governments will have to take severe measures to emancipate people from the scourge of poverty. Laws around the world ban child labor and most countries provide for compulsory education for children until they complete their secondary level education. However, these laws are not implemented with the force they deserve or require. For instance, India passed the Act for Compulsory Education for Children until 14 years of age in 2010, yet, there are millions of children today who do not attend school and are employed in fields, factories, shops and homes. The authorities must hold the parents of these children and those who employ them liable and punishable. Moreover, if the Ministry of Education at the federal and provincial levels fails to provide free schooling facilities to children, the officials should be held responsible and must be questioned. Slavery cannot and should not exist in any part of the world in any form in this century and serious efforts must be made to wipe it out. Safi H. Jannaty,
