Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) - Benin (Ratification: 1961)

Article 1(a) of the Convention. Imposition of prison sentences involving the obligation to work as punishment for expressing political views or views ideologically opposed to the established political, social or economic system. The Committee refers to its previous comments and notes the Government’s statement that no penalties have been imposed on political leaders pursuant to the provisions of Title VI of the Charter of Political Parties (Act No. 2001-21 of 21 February 2003). It recalls that, under these provisions, prison sentences may be imposed on persons who found, direct or administer a political party in breach of the Charter of Political Parties. The Committee requests the Government to continue to supply information in its future reports on the application in practice of the provisions of Title VI of the Charter of Political Parties, sending copies of any relevant court decisions, if applicable.