Archive · 25 Jul 2026
Indonesia Accused of Delaying Action Against Slavery
In Indonesia, slavery has been illegal since 1945, but on the island of Sumba, some people are still born into servitude.
This is because of an old belief system called Marapu, which divides society into three classes, including slaves.
People in this system work without pay and face abuse.
The Indonesian government says they are taking a slow approach to change, but human rights groups want the government to enforce anti-slavery laws more strictly.
Slavery has been illegal in Indonesia since 1945, but it still exists on the island of Sumba.
The Marapu belief system divides society into three classes, including slaves.
People in this system work without pay and face abuse, including physical violence and sexual assault.
The Indonesian government defends its gradual approach to social change.
Human rights groups argue for stricter enforcement of anti-slavery laws.
- Who
- People in Sumba, Indonesia
- What
- Slavery and human rights violations
- When
- Ongoing issue since Indonesia's independence in 1945
- Where
- Sumba, Indonesia
- Why
- Centuries-old belief system known as Marapu and government's gradual approach to social change
Human Rights Groups
Indonesian Government
Enforcement of Anti-Slavery Laws
Human Rights Groups
Human rights groups argue that the Indonesian government should strictly enforce the constitutional ban on slavery and uphold international human rights conventions.
Indonesian Government
The Indonesian government defends its gradual approach, stating that social change should evolve alongside communities rather than be imposed abruptly.
- Population of Sumba
- 685,000
- Year Slavery Became Illegal in Indonesia
- 1945
- Percentage of Sumba's Population That is Christian
- 80%
- Indonesian Human Rights Minister
- Yusril Ihza Mahendra
- Traditional Belief System in Sumba
- Marapu