The International Labor Organization (ILO) [officail website] announced Wednesday that International Protocol P029 [text], an agreement seeking to end forced labor, officially entered into force. The agreement was adopted in 2014 and was ratified by nine countries. The ILO explained in a press release [text] that the protocol now binds participating nations to meet the its obligations. The protocol aims to not only to prevent and end slavery, but to provide victims with justice. The ILO stated that an estimated 21 million people are faced with forced labor around the world.

Forced labor is a persistent global problem. In September the UN release a report [JURIST report] showing debt bondage remains the world’s leading form of slavery despite being outlawed in many regions. In April Amnesty International reported [JURIST report] that migrant workers preparing for the 2022 World Cup in Doha, Qatar, allegedly had their passports confiscated by contracting companies increasing the worker’s risk of forced labor. Also in April the UN urged Cambodia to to strengthen the protection of its women and the rights of its indigenous peoples. The UN found, in part, that oppressive conditions in the country perpetuated ideals enabling the forced labor of domestic female workers.