What is Caporalato and how can it affect people on the move?
Caporalato is an Italian term that refers to illegal labour intermediation, commonly known as the ”gangmaster system” in English. It involves the recruitment of largely workers from migrant backgrounds to perform various types of labour, predominantly in agriculture. Our Communications and Media volunteer Giovanna Bressan explains more about the phenomenon and what it means for people on the move.
What is Caporalato?
Caporalato is an Italian term that refers to illegal labour intermediation, commonly known as the "gangmaster system" in English. This practice involves the recruitment of largely migrant workers to perform various types of labour, predominantly in agriculture. The term "caporalato" originates from the Italian word "caporale," which is derived from the Latin "caput," meaning "head" or "leader". Historically the caporale acted as a foreman or overseer in agricultural contexts. The term has evolved to signify the exploitative nature of these intermediaries who profit from vulnerable workers.
Key Characteristics of Caporalato:
Illegal recruitment
Labour exploitation: workers endure gruelling conditions, including extended working hours, low wages, and unsafe environments
Deplorable living conditions: labourers often reside in overcrowded and unsanitary accommodations
Countries Affected by Caporalato
It is predominantly an Italian issue, traditionally associated with Southern Italy, but also present in the North. Similar practices have been reported in other Mediterranean countries, such as Spain (in agricultural regions like Andalusia and Catalonia) and Greece (in rural areas, particularly in strawberry plantations). The majority of workers affected by Caporalato are migrants from non-EU countries. In Italy, significant numbers come from countries such as India, Albania, Morocco, Tunisia, and Senegal. Many migrants, particularly those without legal status, seek better economic opportunities but face exploitation due to limited employment options and language barriers. The Caporalato system further traps them in precarious labor conditions, denying them basic rights and protections. They are frequently subjected to harsh working conditions, long hours, and minimal pay: sometimes as low as €1 per hour. The caporali often charge fees for transportation and housing, further diminishing the workers' earnings. Moreover, the lack of legal protections means that these workers can face coercion and violence from their employers or intermediaries. Many are forced to accept degrading conditions simply to secure employment, resulting in a cycle of exploitation that is difficult to escape.
Caporalato not only violates human rights but also has severe economic and social consequences. By fostering labour exploitation, it weakens legal labour markets, perpetuates social inequalities, and hinders economic sustainability.The reliance on exploitation leaves communities vulnerable and less resilient to changing market conditions, ultimately undermining long-term economic stability.
Caporalato in Italy is driven by a combination of:
1. Economic demand for low-cost labour, especially in agriculture, which leads to informal labour arrangements that bypass legal protections and minimum wage standards.
The seasonal nature of agricultural work makes it easier for workers—particularly migrants—to fall into exploitative situations.
2. Migration patterns that create a vulnerable workforce: many people on the move are unaware of their rights, creating a pool of vulnerable workers with no choice but to accept low wages and poor conditions.
3. The influence of organized crime: Mafia groups often use coercion and intimidation to control labour markets. Despite existing laws, weak enforcement and fear of retaliation (such as deportation) prevent workers from reporting abuses, allowing caporali to operate with relative impunity.
4. Socio-economic challenges: economic fragility contribute to the reliance on informal labour markets. High unemployment rates and poverty drive individuals to accept any available work, even if it means enduring exploitative conditions.
Caporalato is a severe form of labour exploitation that preys on migrant workers' vulnerabilities.
Addressing this issue requires tackling the systemic labour market failures that allow it to persist.
Efforts to combat Caporalato must focus on improving legal protections for all workers and dismantling the networks that enable this form of exploitation.
Organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are trying to prevent labour exploitation through initiatives such as the A.L.T. Caporalato project. However, continued vigilance, stronger law enforcement, and better support for vulnerable workers are essential.
Raising awareness is the first step toward change.
Words by Giovanna Bressan