This case involves a group of Chinese workers employed by a Slovenian company whose owner and director is also Chinese. The exploitation followed a systemic pattern of abuse:
- Extreme working hours: Workers were forced to work up to 70 hours per week, far exceeding legal limits.
- Wage theft and illegal deductions: Payments were made only at the minimum wage level, with some workers being paid via bank transfer and others in cash. Most disturbingly of all, workers were forced to return part of their earnings to the employer.
- Debt bondage: workers arrived in Slovenia via a Chinese recruitment agency that charged high fees. Additionally, the employer demanded a ’security deposit‘ to prevent the workers from leaving.
The FELM advisory centre in Ljubljana successfully intervened to protect the first worker to come forward, coordinating with state institutions and internal union networks. In collaboration with the Employment Service of Slovenia (ZRSZ), FELM helped the worker find a new, reputable Slovenian employer. Local unionists already employed there provided critical support during the transition. The worker started his new job on Monday, 11 May 2026, expressing immense relief after months of exploitation and living in fear for his life and health. Due to death threats made against the worker upon his resignation and clear indicators of human trafficking, the FELM advisory centre in Ljubljana has filed official reports with the police. A complaint has also been submitted to the Financial Administration (FURS) and the Labour Inspectorate (IRSD) regarding wage theft, illegal deposits and labour law violations.
Currently, FELM is assisting a second worker from the same company who has also sought help.