The new Antislavery in Domestic Legislation database developed by Dr Katarina Schwarz and Professor Jean Allain (hereinafter “authors”) is timely and important in a number of respects.  First, it contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Despite the fact that slavery has been abolished in law, the authors point to the fact that de facto slavery still exists, and States must do more than abolishing it. In this regard, the authors suggest that UN Member States must have sufficient legislative frameworks in place to prevent people from enslaving others as mandated by international standards including the 1926 Slavery Convention, 1956 Supplementary Convention, 1930 Forced Labour Convention as well as other human rights instruments. It is here that the Legislative Database plays an important role as it allows interested individuals and entities to access over 900 legislative frameworks on slavery and slave-like practices of all UN Member States. This will allow them to conduct thorough research and to deepen their understanding of how slavery and slave-like practices are regulated across the globe. The Database is the first of its kind in the field, and there is no doubt it will contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

Through their research, the authors conclude that there is still a long way to go as many States have not adequately prohibited these practices, thereby falling short of international standards. Divergence in State practice indicates that defining or framing offences for slavery and slavery-like practices is influenced by political, social, economic and cultural factors in each State. This, in turn, highlights the need to tackle the deep-rooted underlining causes which make such practices possible.

Second, as the authors suggest, the Database can strengthen antislavery action and advocacy. A closer analysis of legislative frameworks will allow antislavery advocates to identify good practices which can and should be widely shared and followed by States at the national level. When there are areas of concern—which may include the definitions of various acts of slavery and slave-like practices and the punishment regimes—these advocates can offer practical recommendations for improvements. In other words, the Database will serve as an important starting point, facilitating constructive dialogue between States and other relevant stakeholders in the field.

Read the full article here.