Over a million people, including children, were forced to pick cotton in Uzbekistan. Under terrible, inhumane conditions, more than 17 people died.
The forced labor is used to create a $1 billion dollar government sponsored cotton enterprise. With so many men, women and children forced from their jobs and schools, the private economy suffers.
Religious persecution is also intense.
Curious about the country?
- Here is a look at forced child labor from CNN. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fd_42VKfS8
- Here is a look at human trafficking in Uzbekistan. http://m.editorials.voa.gov/a/policy-tip-report-uzbekistan-english/1948054.html
- Why are Christians persecuted in Uzbekistan? See here.https://vimeo.com/111022009