The United Nations Special Rapporteur, Tomoya Obokata, visited Mauritania in May 2022 to assess contemporary forms of slavery in the country. His report highlights the persistence of descent-based slavery, forced labour and domestic servitude, which particularly affect the Haratine and Afro-Mauritanian communities. Despite progressive legislation, the implementation of anti-slavery laws remains inadequate, hampered by a lack of awareness of rights among victims and barriers to access to justice. The report highlights the socio-economic and political discrimination faced by former slaves and their descendants, exacerbated by the lack of official recognition of the racial and ethnic dimensions of slavery. The Special Rapporteur recommends the rigorous implementation of existing laws, sustained awareness-raising campaigns and the adoption of affirmative action measures to combat slavery.

Culture, Discrimination, Esclavage

The article “Slavery by Descent in the Kayes Region” examines the persistence of hereditary slavery in Mali, particularly among the Soninké and Malinké communities of the Kayes region. Historically, slavery was an economic and social pillar, ensuring the prosperity of local elites. Despite its official abolition in 1905, hierarchical social structures persist, maintaining power relations based on descent. The study highlights that, although Islam encourages emancipation, some local interpretations of sacred texts have been used to legitimize this practice. Religious scholars, or marabouts, play an ambivalent role, sometimes perceived as complacent towards slavery by descent. This situation leads to discrimination and social tensions, requiring concerted action to eradicate these practices and promote equality.

Discrimination, Esclavage