Marta's Story: Slavery in East Sumba, a Legacy of Violence Wrapped in Culture
Published
A report from BBC News Indonesia highlights the story of Marta, not her real name, a victim of slavery in East Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara. Marta experienced this condition for more than a decade. Her story has drawn attention because it shows that the practice of slavery still occurs in some parts of Indonesia.
The report's headline quotes a statement considered to reflect the power relations in this case: "I could kill you, because you are my slave." The expression illustrates how a person can be treated as the property of another. The report describes this practice as a legacy of violence wrapped in culture, which is therefore often difficult to recognise and challenge by those within the community.
The photos and captions in this report were produced by journalist Andra Anhar of BBC News Indonesia. Stories like Marta's show the importance of public attention to human rights, especially for the most vulnerable groups. Slavery is a violation of human rights that is prohibited in Indonesia.
The case of Marta in East Sumba serves as a reminder that long-lasting violence can remain hidden behind tradition. Readers can follow the full report to understand the background and the victim's experience in greater depth.
Sources: BBC
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