Tragic death reveals exploitation of migrant workers in Italy

The untimely death of Satnam Singh, an Indian migrant worker working on a farm in Italy, has put a stark spotlight on abuses in the country’s agricultural sector. Singh, who traveled the dangerous ‘donkey route’ to Italy for better prospects, succumbed to injuries sustained in a farm accident, highlighting the harsh conditions faced by illegal migrant workers in the area.

Despite Singh’s tragic death, aspiring migrants from Punjab, India, continue to undertake perilous journeys in the hope of better financial prospects abroad, driven by local unemployment rates that are higher than national averages. The terrifying reality of working illegally in a foreign country stands in stark contrast to the aspirations of these workers.

The exploitation of migrant workers on Italy’s farms is underlined by the infamous gangmaster system, which traps workers in a cycle of low wages and poor conditions. As Singh’s story gains prominence, calls grow for stricter enforcement of the laws against this exploitative system that continues to exist amid the demand for cheap labor across Europe.

(With input from agencies.)