Brazilian Prosecutors Sue BYD Over Allegations of Slave-Like Labor Practices
Brazilian prosecutors have sued BYD and its contractors for alleged slave-like labor conditions affecting 220 Chinese workers. The lawsuit, seeking damages of $50 million, stems from an investigation into their treatment and trafficking concerns. Allegations include inadequate living conditions and deceptive recruitment practices.
SAO PAULO — In a significant legal move, Brazilian prosecutors have announced a lawsuit against BYD, a prominent electric vehicle manufacturer from China, alongside two associated contractors. The lawsuit, filed in Bahia state, alleges the companies exploited workers under appalling, slave-like labor conditions while also participating in international human trafficking activities.
The prosecutorial office is seeking restitution amounting to 257 million Brazilian reais, which translates to approximately $50 million. This legal action follows an investigation that uncovered alarming details about the conditions faced by 220 Chinese workers at the construction site for BYD’s new factory in Camaçari, Brazil.
According to the prosecutors, the workers were lured to Brazil with deceptive job offers and held visas that were inconsistent with their actual roles. The conditions described by the office are stark, indicating a severe lack of humanity in the treatment of the workers. Reports highlight that five settlements associated with BYD, China JinJiang Construction Brazil, and Tecmonta housed individuals in degrading circumstances, including beds without mattresses and personal belongings stored with food.
The office’s statement outlined the appalling infrastructure, revealing a dire shortage of sanitary facilities. They noted one settlement had a single toilet shared among 31 workers, compelling many to wake at 4 a.m. to meet their hygiene needs before starting work.
In reaction to these allegations, BYD has not provided any comments following inquiries made by The Associated Press. In a prior statement from December, a representative of the company denied claims regarding substandard working conditions at the Camaçari site, suggesting that such accusations were attempts to tarnish the reputation of China and its enterprises.
The lawsuit against BYD underscores troubling allegations regarding the treatment of foreign workers in Brazil, particularly in the construction sector. Authorities are advocating for significant monetary damages while emphasizing the deplorable living and working conditions alleged. The legal proceedings highlight not only labor rights issues but also broader questions about international employment practices within emerging industries.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
