Human and Labor Rights Violations, Cases of Pineapple Farms in the Northern Region of Costa Rica, Their Exposure, and Complaints in Different Public Universities Around the Country

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation is to show the expansion of pineapple farms and the consequences of violating labor and human rights of workers within this industry: it is a widespread situation nowadays in Costa Rica. These are the main points in our research. The study is based on authorized testimonies given anonymously or not by current and past workers; they share their experiences inside and outside their workplaces. They expose how their rights have been violated for years and how these experiences have remained unpunished before the institutional apparatus of the state. A pregnant woman reveals that she was subjected to forced cleaning work; an ex worker tells that he was fired one week after returning from a sickness leave for health reasons due to a chronic health condition. There are also testimonies of workers who have been persecuted by the same companies; they were considered as possible opponents and rebellious elements to the company. It will be mentioned how this industry has a lack of commitment to environmental responsibility and how this has a negative impact on the environment and human rights. Furthermore, the study will consider those organizations seeking to protect former employees or people affected by the expansion of this industry, and how these organizations have managed to protect these people and provide emotional support. Finally, this situation will be studied to show how it has been addressed by the university student movement and the reflection generated.