Italian police announced on Saturday that they had liberated 33 Indian farm labourers from deplorable working conditions in the northern province of Verona. Authorities also seized almost half a million euros from the two individuals accused of perpetrating these abuses. Labour exploitation has come under increased scrutiny in Italy following a tragic incident in June, where an Indian fruit picker died after his arm was severed by machinery.
In this recent case, the police reported that the alleged ringleaders, who are also from India, brought their compatriots to Italy on seasonal work permits, news agency Reuters reported. They charged each worker 17,000 euros, promising them a better future. Upon arrival, the migrants were forced into gruelling farm jobs, working seven days a week for 10-12 hours a day, earning just 4 euros an hour. This paltry wage was entirely withheld until their debts were paid off, a practice the police described as "slavery."
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Italy: Labourers Coerced Into Working For Free To Settle Extra 13,000 Euros For A Permanent Work Permit
Additionally, some labourers were coerced into working for free to settle an extra 13,000 euros for a permanent work permit, which, according to police, "would have never been given to them", as quoted by Reuters.
The alleged abusers face charges related to slavery and labour exploitation. The victims, on the other hand, will be provided with protection, work opportunities, and legal residency papers, according to the police statement.
Italy, like many other European nations, faces increasing labour shortages, often filled by immigrants, particularly in lower-paid sectors. The country’s migrant work visa system has been plagued by instances of fraud.
Labour law violations are a significant issue in Italy. Data from the national statistics office Istat in 2021 revealed that approximately 11% of Italian workers were employed illegally, with the figure rising to over 23% in the agricultural sector, Reuters reported.