On June 25th, a CGIL demonstration took place in Latina to remember Satnam Singh, a laborer from Agro Pontino who died from injuries sustained in a work accident. The confederation also launched a fundraiser to support the family. A community event in memory of Satnam Singh will be held next Tuesday, with Fai-Cisl and Uila-Uil confirming their participation. The tragic death of Satnam Singh shed light on the prevalence of gangmastering in Italy and sparked conversations on criminalization in the supply chain.
Satnam Singh’s death was a result of systemic violence present in irregular work and gangmastering, according to unions. Data from the National Labor Inspectorate in Lazio showed that gangmastering persists in Italy, with 608 cases out of 785 workers. The incident prompted discussions on strengthening regulations to protect workers and combat illegal work in the agriculture sector.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and CGIL leader Maurizio Landini condemned the incident as acts of slavery, emphasizing the need for action against gangmastering and illegal work. Minister of Labor Marina Calderone reassured that efforts are being made to combat gangmastering and protect workers in the agriculture sector. Discussions with employers’ associations aimed at increasing checks between databases to combat undeclared work are ongoing.
The tragic event has prompted action towards addressing mistreatment of workers and strengthening regulations to protect them. Steps are being taken to address gangmastering and support the growth of the agriculture sector while ensuring that workers are treated fairly and humanely.
