Tool No. 4: Developing the knowledge base on forced labour

Before developing a NAP with robust strategies to eradicate forced labour, it is imperative to understand the current situation in the country through quantitative and qualitative data collection. Statistical data is needed to understand the magnitude of forced labour, the affected populations and sectors. In order to ensure that the collection and analysis of data is comprehensive and accurate, the International Conference of Labour Statisticians adopted Guidelines concerning the measurement of forced labour so that all countries use the same definitions and indicators. Countries are increasingly integrating modules on forced labour (often in combination with a component on child labour) into their Labour Force Surveys or other regular household surveys. This approach is often cheaper and more sustainable than undertaking stand-alone surveys and allows data comparison, which can be useful to assess the impact of the NAP over time.