Prignitz goat milk farm faces allegations of labor misconduct

Former employees of a goat milk farm in Prignitz, Germany, have raised allegations of poor working conditions and mistreatment. The workers, who were non-EU interns specializing in agricultural engineering or veterinary medicine, claim they were subjected to a harsh tone of voice and pressured to force goats into milking stalls to avoid being shouted at.

Additional allegations include being required to perform non-professional tasks, such as household cleaning, and being charged rent for accommodations that were reportedly unheated during winter months. Some employees also noted that 100 euros was deducted monthly from their wages for transportation between business locations. The interns were brought to Germany via private agencies, with their visas tied directly to the farm.

The State Office for Occupational Safety, Consumer Protection and Health (LAVG) stated it has found no evidence of issues regarding accommodations or violations of working hour regulations, though it noted that violations of occupational safety regulations had been identified in the past. The Federal Employment Agency remains involved in the oversight of such internship plans.