Forced labour and irregular migrant workers: what protections under international labour law?

An extensive labour protection system has developed in Europe and worldwide due to labour movements. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has been a crucial player in the spread of labour protection principles over the years through its Conventions and Recommendations. Despite these efforts, labour exploitation remains a scourge that afflicts workers in various forms, one of the worst being forced or compulsory labour. Although there is no longer a legal right of ownership over human beings, modern slavery still plagues our time. Among the most vulnerable individuals are irregular migrant workers.