Summary

In the present report, the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences, discusses the gender-related dimensions of contemporary forms of slavery, with a particular focus on structural discrimination against women and girls as both a cause and a consequence of various manifestations of slavery (including institutions and practices similar to slavery) around the world.

The Special Rapporteur begins by outlining the provisions in international law and policies that contain guarantees of gender equality and non-discrimination in relation to the prevention and eradication of contemporary forms of slavery. The gendered causes of the phenomena are discussed and the forms of discrimination against women and girls that create and perpetuate manifestations of slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour and domestic servitude, are highlighted. The specific gendered impact of slavery that occurs in a number of economic sectors, namely, agriculture, garment work, electronics manufacturing, accommodation and food services, and domestic and care work, are then outlined. The Special Rapporteur concludes by presenting recommendations to Member States and other stakeholders, including businesses, for eradicating contemporary forms of slavery.