Summary of Die Story im Ersten Sendung vom 09.7.2018 - Europas dreckige Ernte

The documentary "Die Story im Ersten" investigates the dire conditions faced by migrant agricultural workers in Europe, particularly in Spain and Italy, where they endure brutal exploitation while supplying fruit and vegetables to German supermarkets. The film begins by revealing the existence of slums in Europe, where thousands of migrants live in makeshift huts, often constructed from garbage, with no access to basic amenities. These individuals, primarily refugees from Africa, work long hours in extreme conditions, frequently without contracts or proper compensation.

The investigation takes the audience to Almeria, Spain, a major hub for greenhouse agriculture, where the production of fruits and vegetables is heavily reliant on cheap labor. The documentary highlights the low wages paid to workers, often below the legal minimum, and the abusive treatment they receive from employers. A union representative describes the plight of these workers, many of whom are undocumented and vulnerable to exploitation due to their legal status.

As the film progresses, it showcases a protest organized by the union to demand better working conditions and fair wages. Despite the risks involved, workers are encouraged to stand up against their mistreatment. The documentary also sheds light on the involvement of organized crime, particularly the 'ndrangheta mafia in Calabria, which exploits agricultural labor and profits from the illegal practices surrounding it.

The narrative further explores the impact of the German supermarket chains, which exert significant pressure on producers to lower prices, leading to the exploitation of workers in the supply chain. The film questions the responsibility of the European Union and local authorities, criticizing their inadequate oversight and the lack of enforcement of labor laws.

In a poignant conclusion, the documentary reveals a tragic fire in a makeshift camp for agricultural workers, underscoring the ongoing suffering and precariousness of their lives. The film calls for greater awareness and accountability within the food supply chain, urging consumers to consider the conditions under which their food is produced.

Presenters/Contributors:

Notable Quotes

— 00:11 — « The poorest of the poor people live in these slums and they work for us. »
— 00:39 — « Most bosses are bad. We look behind an inhumane business and uncover brutal exploitation. »
— 18:22 — « There are nights when I don't sleep. I don't know the exact number, but there are many people who hung themselves in the greenhouse who couldn't pay. »
— 39:57 — « The fact is that the German supermarket chains are very powerful and the black group is also involved. »
— 42:51 — « Apparently, only with goods with a fair trade seal and with many regional products can you be sure that there is no exploitation behind them. »

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News and Commentary

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