Page 88 - Grasp English C1 (Workbook)

9 Law and Order

C. Read the text about “modern slavery”.
Fill in the blanks with the correct form
of the words in exercise A on page 85.

Slavery did not end with its abolition in the 19 century. Today, many millions of people across the world
th
work as slaves, and the number of 1 is likely to increase in the coming years. Whereas in
the past, slavery was defined as a person being owned by another, modern slavery has evolved. Although
“ownership” of people does still exist, present-day slavery occurs when a person is 2 and
completely controlled by someone else, without the ability to leave.

Men and women, adults and children, are forced into modern slavery. Typically, men are forced to work in
agriculture or construction, women in prostitution and nail bars, and children in 3 . Young
girls being forced to marry older men against their will is also slavery. In all these situations, people’s lives
are controlled by their exploiters, and they no longer have free choice.
Many victims of slavery have been trafficked from overseas. Often, they have fallen on hard times in their
home country; some may be 4 war zones, while others may have financial problems. All are
5 to the lure of secure, well-paid work that includes decent living accommodation. They
are often targeted in person, although some are ensnared into slavery via online job adverts and social
media websites. Before long, however, they find themselves in debt, working in ill-paid and dangerous
work, their identification documents 6 and their meagre earnings withheld as payment
for their living costs and travel expenses. They often suffer violence at the hands of their exploiters, and
escape is impossible, forbidden or punished.

With the threat of slavery increasing, much has to be done to ensure that victims and potential victims are
7 , and that traffickers are brought to justice. Crime agencies are pioneering innovative
methods to disrupt traffickers and their operations, sharing tactics and intelligence internationally, and
giving advice on victim care. They are also raising awareness among the general public by educating
them about how to recognise signs of slavery in their neighbourhoods, telling them where to report it,
and reassuring victims that they won’t be punished themselves for reporting their situation. Meanwhile,
pressure is being put on commercial organisations to ensure that their 8 are free from
slavery, as the demand for low costs and fast turnaround times encourages subcontractors to use slaves
in order to win contracts. Consumers can do their bit to reduce slavery by being mindful when deciding
where to shop and how much to pay.

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