Broken Promises: African Women Lured into Drone Production in Russia

Young African women were lured to Russia with promises of education and adventure, only to find themselves working under harsh conditions assembling drones for the military. The Alabuga Special Economic Zone employs these women amid issues of low pay, poor working conditions, and alleged surveillance.

Young African women, enticed by social media advertisements promising free travel and educational opportunities, found themselves in unexpected circumstances upon arriving in Russia. Instead of learning skills in hospitality or catering, they ended up assembling military drones in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone.

Interviews with several women revealed grievances over long hours, constant surveillance, and disagreeable working conditions, which include exposure to harmful chemicals. These revelations shed light on the Kremlin's recruitment drive filling labor shortages with foreign women, raising ethical and legal concerns.

The Alabuga facility, a key player in Russia's arms production, attracts African women with misleading promises, placing Moscow’s drone manufacturing ambitions in the hands of unqualified workers. As this controversial recruitment continues, international attention grows over potential human rights violations.

(With inputs from agencies.)