International Conference - UNESCO Routes of Enslaved Peoples Project: Resistance, Liberty, Heritage, 03 to 05 February 2025

The University of Mauritius has the distinct honour of hosting this International Conference, especially as it coincides with the commemoration of the 190th Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery in Mauritius, observed annually on the 01st of February. We were privileged to have His Excellency Mr Dharambeer Gokhool, GCSK, President of the Republic of Mauritius, as the Chief Guest for the Opening Ceremony of this significant event. 

The Conference is organised jointly by UNESCO Routes of Enslaved Peoples Project, the Mauritius Ministry of Arts and Culture, UNESCO NATCOM in Mauritius, the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the University of Mauritius, CIRESC, France. SLAFNET, France and Le Chantier Maurice, it brings together several eminent scholars from the Western Indian Ocean engaged for decades in unexplored disciplines related to slavery and themes previously considered taboo subjects. This conference features a diverse programme, including poster and artefact exhibitions and book launches that delve into the multifaceted aspects of the history of slavery.

The event serves as a pivotal platform to delve into the profound impacts of the slave trade and slavery, particularly within the Western Indian Ocean region. By fostering scholarly discourse, it aims to shed light on the enduring legacies of this history and its relevance to contemporary society.

Mauritius stands as a living testament to this heritage, with sites like Le Morne Cultural Landscape, symbolising both the suffering and the resilience of enslaved peoples. Through this conference, we endeavour to honour their memory, promote understanding and inspire further research and dialogue on this crucial period of our history that has shaped out present.

On behalf of the University of Mauritius, I wish to extend our gratitude to all the Participants and the Organisers for their steadfast dedication to this cause. Together, we strive to ensure that the lessons of the past and the legacy left by our ancestors, inform a more just and inclusive future.

May our collective efforts here ignite meaningful dialogues, inspire scholarly pursuits, and strengthen our commitment to honouring the legacies of resistance, liberty, and heritage in the Western Indian Ocean and across the world!

I wish all the Participants a fruitful Conference!