African Workers Deceived into Russian Drone Factory Labor

Recruited under false pretenses, young African women find themselves assembling drones for Russia's war in Ukraine.

The Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Russia recruits young women from Africa, Asia, and Latin America to fill labor shortages in drone manufacturing.
Women were misled by promises of work-study programs and lucrative jobs, only to find themselves working long hours under surveillance in harsh conditions.
The factory in Tatarstan is central to Russia's drone production, with plans to produce 6,000 drones annually by 2025, ahead of schedule with 4,500 already built.
Workers report exposure to caustic chemicals without adequate protective gear, leading to health issues like skin irritation and itching.
Human rights organizations suggest the recruitment practices could meet criteria for trafficking, given the deceptive nature and exploitative conditions.