Amendolara murders spark nationwide protests against caporalate

On 1 June 2026 four migrant agricultural workers – three from Afghanistan and one from Pakistan – were found burned alive in a minivan at a service station near Amendolara in the province of Cosenza, Italy. Two alleged Pakistani goons were arrested in connection with the killings. The atrocity triggered large-scale demonstrations organized by the CGIL and FLAI, with thousands gathering in Amendolara and later in Florence to demand justice and reforms.

Political figures responded strongly. PD secretary Elly Schlein called for a tougher anti‑caporalate framework, proposing preventive seizure of companies that exploit workers and urging a shift from focusing solely on “caporalato” to also addressing the “padronato” – the responsibility of employers. CGIL leader Maurizio Landini appealed for a “moral and social revolt” against the exploitation system. The protests also criticised the government for under‑using PNrr funds earmarked for anti‑caporalate measures.

Organisers demanded concrete support for victims, including housing, legal, health and psychological assistance, and tighter inspections of agricultural firms. The incident has put migrant labour exploitation and related legislative reforms at the centre of the national debate.