Work camps in Ecuador prompt allegations of modern-day slavery

Americas Now

A Japanese company is being investigated for accusations of abuse at work camps in Ecuador. And the charges of abuse date back decades.

News of horrifying conditions at plantations along Ecuador’s Pacific coast recently made headlines. They were described as instances of modern slavery.

Employees who lived on the company grounds were denied access to basic necessities and treated with an extreme lack of human dignity.

Correspondent Harris Whitbeck traveled to the region to assess the situation first-hand.

Representatives for the workers and the company have met a couple of times. But so far no settlement has been reached. If found guilty of labor abuses, the company could face fines and even permanent closure of its operations in Ecuador.