UN experts have expressed deep concern over reports of trafficking and forced labour affecting migrant workers on a citrus farm in Morphou, northern Cyprus. The abuses are described as large-scale and systematic, potentially impacting over 600 workers. According to the experts, intermediaries in the workers’ countries of origin, acting on behalf of the state-owned company Cypfruvex, deceived migrants by promising jobs in the Republic of Cyprus or elsewhere in the EU, only to bring them to northern Cyprus. Upon arrival, workers reportedly had their passports confiscated, were placed in labour camps, and were forced to work seven days a week for 12–13 hours daily under inhumane conditions, often without pay.
Reports indicate that workers faced threats, coercion, and physical violence from both intermediaries and company officials. Many workers’ permits were allowed to expire deliberately, leaving them in irregular situations through no fault of their own. The UN experts highlighted that this practice appears systematic in the region, exacerbating the vulnerability of migrant workers. Despite complaints, there has been minimal accountability or legal recourse, as authorities have failed to investigate or prosecute alleged perpetrators and access to legal aid has been limited.
The experts stressed that the lack of assistance and effective investigations leaves victims without support and enables impunity for serious human rights violations. They called on authorities to conduct thorough investigations into trafficking allegations, ensure victims have access to remedies including compensation, and hold business enterprises and their partners accountable for unlawful activities. The statement emphasized adherence to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights to prevent further abuses and promote accountability in the region.
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