Brazil labor operation rescues 479 workers from modern slavery

During August, a multi-agency task force known as Operação Resgate VI rescued 479 people from conditions analogous to slavery across Brazil. The operation involved the Federal Public Ministry, the Ministry of Labor and Employment, the Federal Police, and other judicial bodies.

The victims included 75 women, 13 children or adolescents, and 66 migrants from eight different countries, including Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, Venezuela, Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau. Most rescues occurred in rural areas, particularly in coffee, onion, and potato farming. The Southeast region saw the highest concentration, with 267 workers rescued, 208 of whom were in Minas Gerais.

In urban settings, nearly half of the victims were found in the construction sector. In Paraíba, 20 workers were rescued from street paving projects where they lacked protective equipment, potable water, and sanitary facilities. Employers were forced to regularize contracts and pay approximately R$ 1.4 million in outstanding labor dues. The operation also identified child labor and violations of health and safety standards.