New York: As the United Nations mourned victims of the transatlantic slave trade yesterday, Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon expressed hope that the struggle against "one of the greatest atrocities in history" will inspire the world in the battle against modern forms of slavery such as forced labour and human trafficking.

"Even as we mourn the atrocities committed against the countless victims, we take heart from the courage of slaves who rose up to overcome the system which oppressed them," Ban said at a special ceremony yesterday at UN Headquarters marking the first International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

"These brave individuals, and the abolitionist movements they inspired, should serve as an example to us all as we continue to battle the contemporary forms of slavery that stain our world."

African drummers, dancers and poets and a steel pan troupe from the Caribbean performed plays that highlight the sufferings of the slaves.

Ban noted that even today, millions around the world, including children, are suffering under the yoke of racism, forced labour, sexual exploitation and human trafficking.

Not only is the world shamed by these horrible crimes but it is also challenged to respond, he said. "Let us honour the victims of the slave trade by remembering their struggle. Let us carry it forward until no person is deprived of liberty, dignity and human rights."
Source : PTI