Explains how the concept of forced labor is defined in international law and discusses some parameters for identifying contemporary forced labor situations in practice. Provides the first minimum global estimate of the numbers of people in forced labor by an international organization, broken down by geographical region and by form of forced labor. Gives a global picture of contemporary patterns of forced labor, and of action to eradicate it. Reviews the ILO’s assistance to member States for the eradication of forced labor, in view of the creation of a Special Action Programme to Combat Forced Labour. Lastly, it makes recommendations for future action.