Sat. Feb 8th, 2025

From TCNEWS

In the pursuit of justice and human dignity, it is paramount to confront the scourges of domestic servitude and spousal slavery head-on. These insidious forms of exploitation thrive in the shadows, preying on the vulnerable and perpetuating cycles of abuse and injustice.

To effectively combat these under-reported atrocities, it is essential to understand their definitions, distinguish between them, and advocate for robust legal frameworks to hold perpetrators accountable and protect victims.

Domestic Servitude encompasses the exploitation of individuals within private households, where they are subjected to forced labor, coercion, and abuse. Victims of domestic servitude often endure long hours of work without rest or compensation, deprived of their basic human rights and dignity.

In contrast, spousal slavery refers to the coercive control exerted by one spouse over another within the confines of marriage. It manifests in various forms, including economic manipulation, emotional abuse, and physical violence, aimed at subjugating the victim and depriving them of autonomy and freedom.

A Tale of Two Victims:

Consider the plight of a young housemaid, lured by promises of employment and a better life, only to find herself trapped in a cycle of exploitation and abuse. Forced to work long hours without rest, subjected to verbal and physical assaults, she becomes a prisoner in the very household she serves, her cries for help drowned out by the walls of silence and indifference.

Now, juxtapose her story with that of a naive wife, whose dreams of marital bliss are shattered by the reality of spousal slavery. Cut off from her family and friends, she endures a life of torment and fear, her every move dictated by a husband who wields power and control like a weapon, leaving her powerless and voiceless in her own home.

Legal Framework:

The fight against domestic servitude and spousal slavery is bolstered by international legal instruments that unequivocally condemn such practices. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) all affirm the rights of individuals to live free from slavery, servitude, and forced labor.

In Nigeria, domestic servitude and spousal slavery persist despite legislative efforts to eradicate them. The Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, commonly known as the NAPTIP Act, criminalizes human trafficking, forced labor, and related offenses, providing a framework for prevention, prosecution, and protection of victims.

However, challenges abound in the enforcement and implementation of anti-trafficking measures, exacerbated by factors such as poverty, corruption, and cultural norms that perpetuate gender-based violence and exploitation.

The prevalence of domestic servitude and spousal slavery in Nigeria underscores the urgent need for concerted action. According to reports, thousands of individuals, predominantly women and girls, are trafficked within and outside the country each year, falling victim to exploitation and abuse.

In comparison to developed nations like the United States of America, where robust legal frameworks and specialized agencies are in place to combat human trafficking and protect victims, Nigeria faces significant challenges in addressing these crimes effectively.

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000, along with its subsequent reauthorizations, demonstrates a commitment to addressing modern-day slavery through comprehensive approaches that prioritize prevention, prosecution, and victim assistance.

As advocates for human rights, we at CEHRAWS shall continue to advocate for collective efforts and solidarity to confront the scourges of domestic servitude and spousal slavery. By raising awareness, advocating for legislative reform, and providing support to victims, together we can create a world where exploitation and abuse have no place, and every individual can live with dignity and freedom. Let us stand together in the fight for justice and equality, ensuring that the voices of the oppressed are heard and their rights upheld.

The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) is a leading civil rights group dedicated to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and promoting Police accountability and rights-respecting policing atmosphere in Nigeria. Our mission is to foster a just and equitable society, ensuring transparent and responsible governance for the betterment of all citizens. 

By NWAMARA

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