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Labor Exploitation During War: Signs, Risks, Responsibility
Important to know
- During war and occupation, people often lose their jobs, income, and freedom of choice.
- In such conditions, work can turn into a form of pressure and control.
- If a person is forced to work against their will, this is labor exploitation and a crime.
- Consent obtained through fear or desperation is not voluntary.
In this material, you will find a clear explanation of how to recognize labor exploitation, why it is a crime, and what is important to keep in mind in the context of war and occupation.
What is labor exploitation
Labor exploitation — is the use of a person’s labor when they have no real possibility to refuse.
If a person is forced to work because they fear the consequences, this is labor exploitation.
Counter–Trafficking NGO CoalitionPress Service
It can take the form of:
- work without pay or with symbolic “compensation”;
- pressure, threats, or psychological control;
- unsafe working conditions;
- lack of alternatives;
- full or partial control over a person.
Such actions violate human rights and the norms of international humanitarian law.
Labor Exploitation in Occupation Conditions
In situations of occupation, labor exploitation is often used as a tool to subjugate the civilian population.
- forced participation in so-called “community work”;
- involvement in cleaning, construction, or restoration of facilities;
- work for the needs of occupying authorities;
- requirement to “work off” humanitarian aid;
- threats of violence, detention, or deprivation of food or medicine.
For example: a person may be forced to work under the threat of being denied access to medical care or food. In such conditions, the notion of “voluntary work” is impossible.
How to Recognize Labor Exploitation
Signs of Pressure and Control
- unable to refuse work;
- work is imposed through fear or threats;
- intimidation and humiliation are used;
- forced to “work off debts”.
Signs of Restricted Freedom
- movement is controlled;
- documents or personal belongings are taken away;
- communication with others is restricted;
- isolated from the community or family.
Even a few of these signs are a serious warning signal.
Associated Crimes
Labor exploitation rarely exists in isolation. Most often, it is part of a broader system of violence.
We discuss this not to intimidate, but to explain the seriousness of the violations.
Alongside it, the following may occur:
- human trafficking;
- illegal deprivation of liberty;
- physical and psychological violence;
- sexual violence;
- torture and inhumane treatment;
- coercion into collaboration;
- war crimes against the civilian population.
Who is at Increased Risk
The most vulnerable are:
- women;
- elderly people;
- people with disabilities;
- individuals without a stable income;
- people without documents;
- those isolated from family or community support.
The risk lies not in the person, but in the circumstances in which they are deprived of choice.
Why People Cannot Simply Refuse
In situations of war and occupation, refusal is often impossible.
The reasons can vary:
- fear for one’s life and safety;
- responsibility for children or loved ones;
- dependence on food, water, or medicine;
- constant control and threats.
When there is no choice — this is a form of coercion.
Why It Is Important to Document Such Cases
Documenting instances of labor exploitation is important for:
- future investigation of crimes;
- holding perpetrators accountable;
- restoring justice after de-occupation.
Even brief notes — dates, locations, names, testimonies — can be significant.
Key Points
Forced labor during war and occupation is a crime, not a “necessity for survival.”
A person is not responsible for being placed in a situation with no way out.
You are not alone. Support exists.
Even if you are just reading this now — save this information. It can serve as a support for you or someone nearby.
Counter–Trafficking NGO CoalitionPress Service
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