Remembrance of Slavery and its Abolition
In 2004, many activities were organized to commemorate the bicentenary of the uprising of Santo Domingo (today Haiti and the Dominican Republic) and the creation of the first Black Republic, Haiti. Activities have continued, with events in a number of countries to mark the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition. In his commemorative message, the UNESCO Director-General recalled the aim of the International Day to make the slave trade part of the world's collective memory.
Supporting this aim, the travelling exhibition 'Lest We Forget: The Triumph over Slavery' continued to be displayed in many countries, including Cape Verde, Mauritius, Jamaica, and Barbados.
the Slave Route project deals with various aspects of slavery, including its psychological consequences. Its action focuses on:
• supporting scientific research through a network of international institutions and specialists;
• developing educational materials;
• collecting and preserving written archives and oral traditions;
• inventory and preserving memorial sites and places;
• promoting living cultures;
• promoting diverse contributions from the African diaspora;
• promoting standard-setting instruments for the suppression of slavery.
Other ongoing work includes that related to the slave trade in the Indian Ocean.Back to top