Political parties and organizations condemned exploitation and trafficking of seasonal workers in north Cyprus

A number of political parties and organisations have released a joint statement addressing the issue of seasonal workers in Güzelyurt, highlighting findings related to human trafficking. 

This statement, issued by the Human Rights Platform and various other groups, points out that over 600 seasonal workers brought to the area through Cypfruvex and various intermediaries are living in inhumane conditions and facing serious human rights violations.

The statement explains that these workers, after paying large sums to come to the island, are subjected to unhealthy living conditions, physical and psychological abuse, threats, starvation, and confiscation of their passports. It claims that these workers were brought in at the request of Cypfruvex and distributed arbitrarily by brokers.

Additionally, it notes that many workers, forced into labour, find themselves jobless and penniless when the citrus season ends. Just days before the season closed, around 180 new workers were brought in despite there already being about 450 workers on the island. The statement questions why new workers were needed at that time.

Furthermore, it criticises Cypfruvex officials for admitting to confiscating workers’ passports and not paying their full wages, while local authorities have failed to intervene, making it difficult for victims to seek justice. The police and prosecutors are said to be downplaying the situation, viewing it as a “debt issue” rather than addressing the signs of human trafficking.

The statement asserts that anyone ignoring human trafficking is complicit in the crime. It highlights that these workers face serious violations not only in their working conditions but also in accessing basic human needs like health, safe housing, and food. Immediate solutions are demanded within the framework of humanitarian and legal obligations.

It calls on the police and prosecutors to recognise the signs of human trafficking, secure the rights of the workers, and take immediate steps to hold the responsible parties accountable. It also urges a thorough investigation into the illegal activities of intermediary companies and adjustments to labour laws to protect victims’ rights. The organisations pledge to continue amplifying the voices of the victims and keeping this issue in the spotlight. They call on state authorities, particularly the Ministries of Labor, Agriculture, Health, and Finance, to take immediate action, emphasising that silence equates to complicity in this crime.

Yeniduzen, LGC NEWS