Domestic worker rescued after 55 years without pay in Brazil

An anonymous tip led to the rescue of a 62-year-old domestic worker in Ceará, Brazil, who had allegedly worked for the same family for 55 years without receiving any salary. Labor inspectors and the Federal Police found the woman in a luxury condominium in Eusébio, in the Metropolitan Region of Fortaleza, uncovering a situation described as analogous to slavery. At the time of her rescue, she was living with the great-granddaughter of her first employer and was responsible for the daily care of two children, aged 11 and seven, in addition to preparing meals and performing all essential household tasks. The Labor Audit Office stated that the employer acknowledged the unformalized employment and irregular payment. A Conduct Adjustment Agreement (TAC) was signed, obligating the employers to fulfill certain conditions. These include regularizing social security contributions, paying R$50,000 in severance pay, and purchasing a residential property valued at a minimum of R$150,000, furnished and equipped. The agreement also stipulates financial supplementation if she does not receive a pension by age 64. The family, however, has denied the accusations, asserting they met all labor obligations. The Public Prosecutor's Office for Labor (MPT) is monitoring the agreement's compliance, while the Secretariat of Human Rights of Ceará (Sedih) is providing assistance and preparing the victim for societal reintegration. The rescued woman, who is hypertensive and suffers from recurring malaise, had no personal life, did not leave the house alone, could not read or write, had no bank account, and felt compensated by receiving clothes, food, and housing, but her routine revolved around the children. She is temporarily residing with the employers while a psychosocial team helps her build autonomy and prepare for reintegration into the outside world.