I came from the village of Bastan (Kazakhstan). I have secondary technical education in communication. I have never worked using my profession. I have had occasional work. My last work was as a watchman at a granary. I am a widower with three children. I came to Russia in 1997 in order to gain money for the higher education of my eldest son. I learnt from newspapers about work in Russia, an acquaintance recommended an intermediary to me, who demanded US$200 for his services and persuaded me that I would earn enough in Russia. Six more people came with me. In Russia a person responsible for placing us in jobs was waiting for us. They sent us to work at different places. I never saw them any more. They took away my passport, allegedly for registration. I got it back after a year and eight months. The next day I began working. I build houses and cottages. I live “on site” - in a truck. We work without holidays, without a schedule, often at night. I work as a bricklayer but in addition I have to do a lot of other work. Earnings are on average about 2’500 Roubles, without a pay-slip, with goes partially towards my debt.
[…]
No, I am afraid even to think about it [changing my job]. I am not sure that another job wil bring more profit.
[…]
[My employer] seems to be a Greek. We seldom see him. Some others keep an eye on us. The situation is bad, as I am dependent, in debt to the employer I see no way out. I have neither registration, nor the permission to work. I have not received anything, and I am afraid to bear additional costs and have problems with the employer. But there were times when the police demanded money from me, as I had no passport with me. My plans for the future are to pay off my debts and return back without risking my life. Prior to arrival I felt enthusiastic about earning money in Russia, but upon arrival initially it was a disappointment, and then - depression and a feeling of hopelessness.
*name given
Narrative credit to International Labour Organization
Original narrative found in report ‘Forced Labour in the Russian Federation Today: Irregular Migration and Trafficking in Human Beings’
