Like everywhere else in the world,Niger forbids slavery. But like in many other places,slavery is still tolerated. The British-based organization ”Anti-Slavery International” estimates there are at least 40,000 slaves in Niger,most of them women. Hadijatou Mani Koraou achieved what many women in Niger cannot imagine: after laboring for her owner for ten years,she summoned enough courage to flee.She freed herself from slavery and was at least symbolically compensated for her suffering. In an unprecedented trial,the court of the Economic Community of West African States censured the country of Niger for failing to protect its citizens from serfdom. The government had to pay the young woman 15,000 euros. Hadijatou Mani’s suit has sent a signal,and the judgement has the power of law in other West African states,as well.
