Scientific Network

Scientific research on the slave trade and slavery remains one of the main thrusts of the project. It is based on a scientific network that provides an objective approach to this tragedy through rigour, ethics and an overall view.

Such research, which draws on the various fields of social and human sciences, is aimed at gaining insight into aspects of the slave trade and slavery such as statistics on the victims, slave trade itineraries, living conditions of slaves, geographical distribution of slaves, the functioning of slave societies, the inventory of memorial places, resistance, sociocultural interaction arising from slavery, its legacy in modern societies, the development of racism, and the contribution of people of African descent to world development.

It is conducted through several thematic networks that contribute to the growing number of studies on the subject and is supported by the National Commissions for UNESCO.

Nineteen thematic networks have been established throughout the world and operate from within scientific and cultural institutions. Drawing on their own resources, they receive support selectively from the project Secretariat at UNESCO for the procurement of communication and information facilities, the conduct of research and the publication of research findings. They constitute a significant pool for the exchange of research and information in support of the project.