Contemporary slavery in the light of the Federal Supreme Court

Contemporary slavery has its own characteristics and cannot be confused with the reality that existed in Classical Antiquity or even in Colonial Brazil. In fact it is a subtle and perverse practice that must be combated radically. Despite investigations complaints and audits carried out by agencies dedicated to this purpose there are still countless workers reduced to conditions analogous to slavery. Individual freedom and physical and psychological integrity require differentiated criminal treatment. This study is based on the understanding of the Federal Supreme Court presented during the trial of Inquiry No. 3412/AL to analyse the offence provided for in Article 149 of the Penal Code.