UN Resolution 57/255: International Year to Commemorate Struggle against Slavery and its Abolition.
| Political |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
5 min read
The UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 57/255, marking a pivotal initiative in global efforts to honor the memory of victims of slavery and promote awareness regarding its historical and ongoing impact. The resolution proclaimed a specific year as the International Year to Commemorate the Struggle against Slavery and its Abolition. This was an effort to recognize the profound human suffering caused by slavery and the consequential legacy that persists today.
The decision to commemorate was influenced by the bicentenary of the Haitian Revolution, which was a significant event in the history of abolition, occurring when enslaved people in the French colony of Saint-Domingue successfully led a rebellion, ultimately establishing Haiti as the first black republic. This historical context underscored the resilience and agency of enslaved peoples, providing a fitting backdrop for the commemoration.
The resolution aimed to enhance public memory of the horrors of slavery and educate about its enduring consequences such as systemic racism and economic disparity. It called on governments, international organizations, and civil society to engage in activities that highlight the struggle against slavery and recognize efforts toward its abolition. These activities included educational programs, cultural events, and discussions aimed at fostering a better understanding of slavery's history and promoting human rights.
The initiative aligned with various international observances and conventions such as the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, and the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent. Historians, educators, and activists were encouraged to use this opportunity to shed light on the experiences of millions who suffered under slavery and slave trade systems.
By adopting Resolution 57/255, the UN highlighted the ongoing need for vigilance against modern-day forms of slavery, including human trafficking and forced labor. The action served as a reminder of the international community's responsibility to confront past atrocities while advocating for justice and equality in the present.
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