Slavery persists on Indonesian island despite being illegal

On the Indonesian island of Sumba, just a two-hour journey from Bali's tourist beaches, slavery is still a daily reality. People are born into bondage, working from dawn to dusk without pay. They are passed on in marriage and sometimes suffer beatings and rape from their masters. Despite being illegal in Indonesia for more than 160 years, slavery continues unchecked in some parts of the country. Many of those enslaved, known locally as 'ata,' have resigned themselves to their fate. One young slave explained that their status 'cannot be wiped away,' highlighting the deep roots of the practice. The Indonesian government has laws against slavery, but enforcement is weak in remote areas like Sumba. Activists say that poverty, lack of education, and traditional hierarchies keep the system alive. Children inherit the status of their parents, making escape nearly impossible. While some organizations work to free slaves and provide alternative livelihoods, progress is slow. The island's isolation and the complicity of local authorities make it difficult to end the practice. Sumba is known for its traditional culture and beautiful landscapes, but behind the scenes, the reality for many is one of exploitation and abuse. The government faces pressure to act, but change has been limited. For now, thousands remain trapped in a system that should have ended long ago.