Italy's Secret Slavery

Words by Divya Goyal

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This rare vintage poster was for Lata Mangeshkar's historic 1974 concert at London's most iconic venue, the Royal Albert Hall. In 1974, Lata became the first Indian to perform live at the prestigious venue with a series of three sold-out concerts within a single week. It was also her first performance outside India. (Available Now)

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Italy's Secret Slavery

In the heart of Italy’s lush green landscapes, a Sikh man wipes sweat from his brow as he tirelessly milks cows in the sweltering heat and humidity. More than just a scene from the agricultural life of Italy,  it provides a glimpse into the exploitation faced by many farmers at the hands of local landowners and intermediaries. Despite nearly a decade of awareness, the terrible conditions and unjust treatment of these laborers persist.

The rise of Sikh population in Italy and their crucial role in sustaining the cheese industry is in stark contrast to the harsh reality of their working conditions. The exploitation of farmers at the hands of local landowners and game masters—the link between landowners and laborers—still needs dire reform, almost a decade after it came to global attention. A detailed report ordered by the parliamentary commission to explore the working conditions in Italy, focusing on the Italian city of Latina and its province in 2021, narrated the harrowing reality of “gang-mastering and starvation wages without any respect for employment contracts.”