The Court of Appeal in Sweden has upheld a two and a half year prison sentence for two entrepreneurs guilty of severe human exploitation involving nine Thai berry pickers.
The man and woman, both in their 40s, misled the workers during the summer of 2023. They promised a minimum wage according to Swedish labor agreements and eight-hour workdays, five days a week.
However, the berry pickers faced harsh working conditions. They endured long hours with no days off, earning only 18% to 29% of their expected wages after two months. The court found that the entrepreneurs had no intention of paying fair wages, overtime, or compensation for inconvenient hours. Their actions aimed to profit at the workers’ expense.
Testimonies highlighted the workers’ difficult living conditions, including 15-hour workdays and insufficient food. This case has ignited discussions about labor rights and the need for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable workers in Sweden.
Source: Aftonbladet
