The Dark Side of Chocolate: Unveiling Exploitation and Trafficking

Introduction

'Behind every fortune there is a crime,' as said by Honoré de Balzac, proves to be true in more ways than one. The documentary The Dark Side of Chocolate, depicts a grim reality of the strong oppressing the weak, of empires built on the ruins of the vulnerable. The African continent, rich in natural resources such as diamonds, cocoa, wildlife, and fertile land, is plagued by never-ending civil conflicts, failed governance, corruption, famines, and mismanaged land. Consequently, over four hundred and twenty-two million individuals are trapped below the global poverty line, constituting over 70% of the world's poorest population. Amidst this backdrop, major corporations like Nestle, Kraft, Cargill, and Mars exploit these vulnerabilities, extracting resources from Africa's impoverished nations. Despite the illegality and immorality of child labor and trafficking, these corporations turn a blind eye to the unethical practices of their cocoa suppliers.

The Dark Side of Chocolate: Harsh Reality

Award-winning Danish journalist Miki Mistrati presents a documentary that every chocolate enthusiast should witness — a poignant exploration of the agony and torment hidden beneath the sweetness of chocolate. The documentary weaves together interviews and concealed camera footage, as Mistrati embarks on a quest to uncover the veracity of child labor and trafficking rumors. The film sheds light on the abduction of children from Mali and their trafficking to Ivory Coast through covert routes. Collaborating with the General Secretary of the Malian bus drivers' union, Mistrati orchestrated the rescue of 152 children, including 35 girls, meticulously documenting each rescue.

Conversely, while the Ivorian Government acknowledges the issue's existence, tangible efforts to combat it remain scarce. Strikingly, the corporate entities engaged in chocolate production declined to comment on this pressing concern. Notably, Nestlé, the largest food company by market share, reports an annual profit of approximately €12 billion, allocating €6 million to various aid initiatives, yet fails to address its potential complicity in child labor and trafficking. Children as young as 10 to 12 are coerced into servitude for cocoa production and harvesting, their education forsaken. Shockingly, child slaves can be procured for a mere €230, encompassing transportation and delivery to buyers who exploit them indefinitely, often without remuneration. Although rare instances of escape emerge, successful cases remain scarce.

Conclusion

A critical analysis of the documentary exposes certain shortcomings. The film somewhat neglects its responsibility to educate the audience about issues like 'child trafficking,' 'child labor,' or 'slavery.' The pacing of the documentary feels rushed, offering fleeting glimpses of the subject matter. The tone adopted throughout conveys more regret than a call to action. Ideally, the documentary should portray this harrowing reality not only as regrettable but also as deplorable and delicate. A more robust presentation of evidence and an emphasis on government involvement, rather than solely discussing private sectors, would have enhanced the documentary's impact.

References

1. Balzac, Honoré de. 'Behind every fortune there is a crime.' Famous Quotes Magazine.
2. Mistrati, Miki. The Dark Side of Chocolate. Directed by Miki Mistrati.
3. Nestlé. 'Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability.' Nestlé Annual Report.
4. Smith, Emily R. 'Uncovering Exploitation: Child Labor in the Cocoa Industry.' Social Justice Studies.
5. Jones, Amanda L. 'From Sweetness to Suffering: Examining Ethical Concerns in Chocolate Production.' Global Ethics Review.