In this episode, guest hosts Leisl and Katie sit down with Sam Mawutor — a Ghanaian environmental advocate, researcher, and current PhD candidate at Oregon State University — to unpack the complex relationship between cocoa farming and deforestation in Ghana.

They continue the conversation looking at deforestation in cocoa.

In this episode, guest hosts Leisl and Katie sit down with Sam Mawutor — a Ghanaian environmental advocate, researcher, and current PhD candidate at Oregon State University — to unpack the complex relationship between cocoa farming and deforestation in Ghana.

They explore what cocoa farming looks - the scale, location, expenses, and how cocoa growing works.

Join Fuzz and Carolyn Kitto in this episode as we continue the exploration of modern slavery by debunking common myths.

MYTH #6: There’s no chains or barbed wires keeping victims of modern slavery trapped. Surely they can leave if they want to?

FACT: People caught in modern slavery are tricked, coerced and threatened with violence against them and their families. Their identity papers may have been seized so they can’t leave. Others are tricked into accruing large debts. In the case of children they may not know where they are or where their home is.

MYTH #7: The problem is overwhelming! It can’t be solved.

FACT: It’s true that modern slavery is complex and invasive. It is what we call a wicked problem, full of deeply entrenched complex systemic inequalities. It’s not impossible to solve, but we need to tackle it together; as government, civil society, business and individuals.

MYTH #8: There’s nothing I can do about Modern Slavery

FACT: Everyone has a crucial role to play in helping end modern slavery! We value human life and human dignity and the right for everyone to be free. So we all have a responsibility to put those values into practice in the way we care for others. We can do this by supporting companies that are addressing modern slavery. We can advocate to government.

In this episode as we continue the exploration of modern slavery by debunking common myths.

MYTH #3: Modern slavery is mostly in sectors like sex trafficking.

While sex trafficking is a visible aspect, it constitutes only a fraction of modern slavery. Forced marriage, for example, makes up a significant portion, affecting millions globally. We share the story of Jasvinda Sagara, who escaped a forced marriage and now advocates for others in similar situations.

MYTH #4: Modern slavery doesn’t impact me

Modern slavery touches all our lives through the products we consume. From the food we eat to the clothes we wear and the electronics we use, many everyday items have supply chains tainted by modern slavery. Australians, for instance, import billions of dollars worth of products at risk of being produced under such conditions.

MYTH #5: Modern slavery only impacts poverty stricken, unskilled, desperate people.

While poverty and desperation do heighten vulnerability, modern slavery also affects educated and skilled individuals. For instance, some university graduates are trafficked into scam centers, exploiting their technical skills. Modern slavery spans all demographics and regions, driven by factors like conflict and economic hardship.

Like most things, slavery is often portrayed as cliches. Heavy chains. Shackles. Hands tied with thick rope. Cages. Metal bars. While some of these have been true, the reality of modern slavery is much more varied.

These myths or common misconceptions about slavery can be harmful. Without recognising slavery and its nuance, it's difficult for us to fight the realities of modern slavery.

So let’s debunk some of the most common myths about modern slavery in these upcoming three episodes. We'll look at the first two today.

MYTH #1: Slavery no longer exists

MYTH #2: Modern slavery happens only in developing countries, not in Australia.

Sayana spent her childhood stacking bricks. When Sayana was just 8 years old, her family moved into the brickyard. They were full of hope. 

We continue to conversation with Matt, an Australian investigative journalist in Asia, who has investigated and written dozens of stories on modern slavery. They continue to discuss Matt’s personal journey and growth in understanding modern slavery and the wicked problem that makes victims look like monsters.

Modern slavery comes in many forms. This is a new and unique one in many ways but the story gives an insight into the fears and smart thinking of a 30 year old professional.

View the video clip at www.beslaveryfree.com/oxana