What's happening?

Imagine you could travel back to Roman times. You might see people fighting lions or other animals in big arenas. You might see people swimming in huge bathhouses. But you might also see slaves. 

Slaves are people who are made to work by others. They have no choice and they are not paid. 

Today, there should be no slaves. But slaves do still exist today. There are more slaves on Earth today than at any other time in history. They are known as modern slaves. And more than half of them live in rich countries.

Many are tricked into becoming slaves. Some are told they are moving to a new country where they will have a new job and a better life. But when they get there, they are forced to work and their money is stolen. They have no freedom. 

It is something most people have no idea is happening. This summer, the OlympicRelating to the Olympic Games, which take place every four years. runner Sir Mo FarahA British runner who won four Olympic gold medals. He was born in Somalia. told his story on television. When he was nine, he was brought to the UK and made to look after a stranger's children. 

Find out more

Mo Farah is not a slave anymore. But sadly, cases like his are common. 

Should we blame rich countries?

Yes! Modern slaves often are forced to make things that are used in rich countries, like the food we eat and the clothes we wear.

No! Many modern slaves live in poor countries. And many come from countries that are facing war. Rich countries cannot always stop this.