Some 18,000 people have been released from forced labour in Brazil since 1995, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and Brazil's Ministry of Labour announced in March.

The number of people released following inspections by the government's Mobile Inspection Groups rose from 2,887 in 2004, to 4,113 in 2005. In 2003, 4,932 people were released.

Despite the Government's aim to eliminate slavery by 2006, thousands of Brazilians continue to be trafficked from impoverished parts of the country, lured to Amazonia by promises of good work. Once they reach their destination, they discover they have been charged for the costs of their transport, food, equipment and accommodation and are forced to pay the debt through their labour.