Chattel slavery

Nature

Chattel slavery is full slavery in its traditional form whereby slaves are the complete property of their master, can be bought and sold by him and treated in any way that he wishes, which may include torture and other brutality, excessively bad working conditions, and sexual exploitation. Chattel slavery includes the buying, selling and ownership of women and girls as concubines, wives or prostitutes, and of the children of slaves.

Background

Chattel slavery emerged as a global phenomenon with the transatlantic slave trade in the 16th century, drawing international condemnation by the 19th century as abolitionist movements gained momentum. Its importance was first recognized through widespread documentation of human rights abuses and economic exploitation. Subsequent understanding deepened with historical research revealing its persistence beyond formal abolition, highlighting enduring legacies and the need for continued vigilance against modern forms of slavery.

Incidence

Chattel slavery, apart from the ownership of women and girls, is fairly limited in extent since the decree of King Faisal in Saudi Arabia in 1962 making slavery illegal. Until this time, slave owning and the slave trade had flourished particularly in Arabia, with Saudi Arabia as its centre. Slavery is still alleged to exist in Muscat and Oman, Aden and the Yemen, though in some cases slaves are legally free to leave their masters if they wish. In Africa, Zanzibar, Cameroon and Mauritania are centres of slavery used to supply the Arabian market. Chattel slavery of women survives in many African countries among tribespeople.

Claim

Chattel slavery is a horrific violation of human rights and remains one of the gravest injustices in history. Treating people as property strips them of dignity, freedom, and hope. Its legacy continues to fuel inequality and suffering worldwide. Ignoring or minimizing chattel slavery is unacceptable; we must confront its brutal reality, educate others, and fight relentlessly to ensure such dehumanization never happens again. This issue demands urgent attention and unwavering action.