The issue of modern slavery remains a critical concern in Brazil, as emphasized by a recent statement from the UN Special Rapporteur on modern slavery. During a visit to the country, Tomoya Obokata highlighted the persistence of various forms of exploitation, including the abuse of children and domestic workers, adverse conditions faced by Indigenous, African, and Quilombola communities, discrimination against sex workers, and limited employment opportunities for migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. These observations underscore the need for urgent and comprehensive action to address these injustices as detailed in Obokata’s findings.
The Brazilian labor market’s tendency to prioritize profit over workers’ rights further exacerbates the situation. Practices such as “pejotização”, where workers are engaged as legal entities rather than formal employees, circumvent labor rights and obligations. These practices contravene established international laws, notably the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which safeguards individuals from servitude and ensures fair labor practices.
Despite these challenges, Brazil does have legislative measures designed to combat modern slavery. Articles in the Penal Code, like Article 149, explicitly criminalize slavery-like conditions, including forced labor and exhausting work hours. Human trafficking is also proscribed under Article 149A. Additionally, Brazil’s Statute of Child and Adolescent prohibits the exploitation of children, supporting international efforts to protect vulnerable groups.
Obokata’s call for Brazil to ratify key International Labour Organization Conventions, such as Convention No. 190 aimed at eliminating workplace violence and harassment, highlights a potential pathway for strengthening protection measures. Additionally, he advocates for holding perpetrators accountable and improving support systems for victims, alongside educational and poverty alleviation programs to reduce exploitation risks.
The government is urged to uphold the rights of Indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups, ensuring their access to equitable work opportunities and fair compensation. As noted by the International Labour Organization, the scale of slavery remains alarmingly high, demanding collaborative and decisive action to dismantle these oppressive systems. This holistic approach is essential for effectively tackling the complex layers of modern slavery in Brazil.