A recent report from the Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) has reignited concerns about forced labor on sugarcane plantations in the Dominican Republic. Despite prior efforts to address these issues, CAL discovered persistent labor abuses, including inaccurate wages, inadequate living conditions, and aggressive enforcement by private security. These are detailed in a JURIST article.
The majority of plantation workers are of Haitian descent, entangled in a difficult cycle of vulnerability exacerbated by restrictive immigration policies. This demographic challenge was highlighted by workers’ testimonials describing the pervasive climate of fear hindering their ability to seek redress for grievances.
Central Romana, the largest landowner in the region, stands at the center of these allegations. The company, linked to the influential Fanjul family, owns ASR Group, the world’s largest sugar refiner, and has political connections within the United States. The Guardian highlights the financial influence wielded by the family over U.S. political spheres, raising speculations about the recent lifting of a prior import ban imposed by the Biden administration in 2022.
CAL’s findings coincide with long-standing reports by organizations like Amnesty International that have criticized the treatment of Haitian workers. The United States previously acted on similar concerns, implementing restrictions in response to documented abuses such as excessive work hours and isolation. However, despite lobbying efforts to reverse these restrictions, international pressure continues to mount.
Central Romana has openly rejected the report’s findings, categorizing them as inaccurate. Yet, the persistent allegations signify ongoing challenges in ensuring ethical labor practices within Dominican agricultural sectors. The issue prompts calls for stronger regulatory frameworks and oversight, as the sugar industry remains a crucial yet complex sector for both local and international economies.