KPLRTO is a floor lamp that challenges the darkness of gangmastering, a symbol of exploitation and injustice. With its evocative design, inspired by the world of work in the agricultural sector, KPLRTO represents a cry against mafia dynamics and the oppression of workers. A lamp that not only illuminates, but sheds light on this cruel phenomenon, inviting reflection. An object that speaks of struggle, dignity and hope for those who have no voice.
300,00 €
More effort, less glory
Illegal hiring is one of the most serious forms of labor exploitation, especially in the agricultural sector, where thousands of workers, Italians and especially foreigners, are subjected to inhumane conditions. This is an illicit intermediation system, where gangmasters recruit and exploit workers, often under conditions far below those provided by law. Workers, are paid 22 to 30 euros per day for hours that can exceed 12 hours, well below minimum wages and in many cases without contracts or legal protections.
Added to this precariousness are forced transportation, degrading living conditions and the imposition of payments for food and accommodation.
Although illegal hiring affects the entire country, the southern regions, such as Puglia, Calabria and Campania, are the most exposed to this phenomenon. Criminal organizations, often linked to the mafia, make enormous profits from this activity, estimating the value of the agromafia “business” at 24.5 billion euros, 10% of the overall criminal turnover in Italy. The victims, forced to live in conditions of constant fear and violence, rarely report, also due to a lack of trust in institutions and the fear of losing their jobs.
At the national level, authorities have stepped up efforts to combat gangmastering, with inspections and investigations conducted throughout Italy. However, the emergence of the phenomenon is still too slow, and only a small part of the cases are reported, mainly in areas where collaboration between public bodies and local organizations is stronger.
The consequences of this exploitation are devastating not only for workers, but also for the entire economic system, which favors illegality and undeclared work. The fight against gangmastering must therefore be addressed with a collective commitment that involves the government, law enforcement, trade unions and also consumers, who must be aware of what lies behind the products they buy.
