Young Bravense woman denounces exploitative working conditions in Dubai
A young woman from the island of Brava, who prefers to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals, has reported that she is living in an extremely difficult situation in the United Arab Emirates, where she works as a domestic worker in Dubai. This is her second time in the country, but she says that her experience has been marked by abuse, lack of freedom and inhumane working conditions.
"If I had known what was waiting for me, I would never have come." This is how a young woman from the island of Brava, who prefers not to reveal her identity, describes her life in Dubai. For the second time in that country, the Bravense woman reveals that she is living a nightmare of exploitation and fear, a far cry from the promises of a better future that led her to accept the job offer.
The young woman works as a domestic worker and says that her days start early and don't end until late at night, with no breaks, no rest and no days off during the week. The salary she receives - around 370 US dollars - barely compensates for the physical and emotional exhaustion. But apart from the exhaustion, what afflicts her most is the feeling of silent imprisonment.
"I can't leave the house alone. When I go out, someone watches me. My passport has been confiscated. I've been told it won't be returned for another two years, when my contract ends. Until then, I have no choice: I'm forced to stay," she vents.
The young woman's voice carries fear, but also revolt. She feels that she has lost her freedom and that the contract she signed has become an invisible chain that is difficult to break. "It's like I'm someone's property. I live in a big house, but I feel like I'm locked in a prison," she confesses, moved.
Despite the difficulties, the Bravense woman has found the strength to share her story as a warning to others. "I urge everyone: don't agree to come without knowing the whole truth. The promises seem good, but the reality is harsh. The pain I feel I wouldn't wish on anyone."
Stories like this are not uncommon. International human rights organizations have repeatedly denounced the sponsorship system ("kafala") practiced in several Gulf countries, which allows employers to withhold documents and restrict the freedom of foreign workers. Many experts consider this practice to be a modern form of labor slavery.
In the case of Cape Verde, several families have already reported similar experiences of young people who left in search of a better life, but found exploitation and fear. Still, economic necessity and the promise of higher wages continue to push many into this reality.
While waiting for her contract to end, the young Bravense woman dreams of the day when she can return to her homeland and hug her relatives. Until then, she lives each day as a silent battle. "I have faith that I will return. But until then, all I can do is hold on. I want my story to serve as a warning, so that other young women don't go through what I'm going through."
