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Ex-Slave Sues Gov't of Niger

Says she was bargained for 'like a goat'

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 9, 2008 9:51 AM CDT
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(Newser) – A young woman was bargained over "like a goat" and sold for $500 at the age of 12, she revealed yesterday in emotional testimony at a landmark slavery trial in an international court in West Africa. The 24-year-old former slave is suing the government of Niger for failing to enforce its own anti-slavery laws and not protecting her from forced work and sexual abuse, the Times of London reports.

If successful, her case could pave the way for similar claims from thousands of former and current slaves in Africa. “I want people to know what is happening,” the woman told the court. “I want the suffering of so many women to stop. This situation must end." An estimated 43,000 people are currently enslaved in Niger.

Tuareg clansmen are silhouetted as they herd cattle near the Mali-Niger border. Niger is one of the world's poorest countries and slavery is widespread.
Tuareg clansmen are silhouetted as they herd cattle near the Mali-Niger border. Niger is one of the world's poorest countries and slavery is widespread.   (AP Photo/Jerome Delay, File)
Women in the Nigerian capital of Niamey. There are reported to be 43,000 slaves kept in Niger, many of them women and children.
Women in the Nigerian capital of Niamey. There are reported to be 43,000 slaves kept in Niger, many of them women and children.   (Getty Images (by Event) Individuals)
Niger's Capital, Niamey. There are believed to be 43,000 slaves kept in Niger, one of the world's most impoverished nations.
Niger's Capital, Niamey. There are believed to be 43,000 slaves kept in Niger, one of the world's most impoverished nations.   (Getty Images)
A young woman is suing the Niger government for failing to prevent her enslavement.
A young woman is suing the Niger government for failing to prevent her enslavement.   (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
A woman in Nigeria is suing the government for failing to keep her from a life of slavery.
A woman in Nigeria is suing the government for failing to keep her from a life of slavery.   (Shutter Stock)
A group of Tuareg tribesmen in Niger, one of the world's poorest countries. Slavery is still widespread despite being outlawed.
A group of Tuareg tribesmen in Niger, one of the world's poorest countries. Slavery is still widespread despite being outlawed.   (AP Photo/David Guttenfelder, File)
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Former slave launches case against Niger
Voice of America

Ex-slave takes Niger to court
BBC

 
West Africa • slavery • Niger • Interights

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