December 2nd • Human Rights & Freedom

Abolition of Slavery

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is a yearly event on December 2nd, organised by the UN General Assembly. Today, we debate the reality of modern slavery—including human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour—and the legacy of the past. How can we build a world that is truly free for everyone, and what is the responsibility of consumers and corporations in ending exploitation? Is slavery truly a thing of the past?

A pair of broken iron chains symbolising freedom

Speaking Discussion

What does freedom mean to you in the context of the 21st century? Is it just about physical movement, or is it more complex?
In your opinion, what is the most significant form of modern slavery that often goes unnoticed in our society?
How much responsibility should consumers have for the labour conditions of the people who make the products they buy?
Do you think that the legacy of historical slavery still has an impact on social and economic inequality today?
What is the most effective way for governments to tackle human trafficking and forced labour on an international scale?
If you had to design a program to educate people about the risks of exploitation, what would be your primary focus?

Activity 1: The ethical sourcing Pitch

The Task: You are a Corporate Ethics Officer. You need to persuade your company to only source materials from certified fair labour suppliers.

What are the three main benefits of this change, and how will you justify the higher costs?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

"The key to ending modern slavery is..."
"I think corporate responsibility is..."
"In my opinion, true freedom is..."

Key Vocabulary

Abolition (N) The action of formally ending or prohibiting a system, practice, or institution.
Exploitation (N) The action or fact of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work.
Trafficking (N) Deal or trade in something illegal; (human trafficking) the action or practice of illegally transporting people from one country or area to another, typically for the purposes of forced labour or commercial sexual exploitation.
Legacy (N) Something handed down from an ancestor or a predecessor or from the past.
Sovereignty (N) Supreme power or authority; the authority of a state to govern itself or another state.

Fluency Catalyst

The "Chain" Phrases: When talking about restriction, use: "To break the cycle," or "To be at the mercy of someone."

Break the Cycle, Master Your Fluency

Master your conversational English with our expert British coaches.

BOOK A LESSON