In Brazil’s illegal gold mining hubs, women endure violence, exploitation, and unimaginable hardship—fueling the global jewelry and tech markets. This untold story sheds light on the human cost of gold’s glimmer.
Gold has always been a symbol of wealth, power, and opportunity, but for the women trapped in Brazil’s illegal mining regions, it represents a much darker reality. In places like Itaituba, deep within the Amazon, the golden allure of gold is not the dream of prosperity—it’s the harsh, dangerous reality that women like Dayane Leite face every day. These women struggle to survive in an industry that fuels global jewelry and technology markets while subjecting them to unimaginable violence and exploitation.
At just 17, Dayane Leite became a widow in Itaituba, a city entrenched in Brazil’s illegal gold trade. Left with the responsibility of raising a family, Dayane had no choice but to turn to sex work to fund her husband’s funeral. “Going to the mines is a roll of the dice,” Dayane shared with the BBC, speaking of the dangers women face in these mining settlements.
Over the years, Dayane has worked as a cook, washerwoman, barmaid, and sex worker in the mining towns—all to support her family of seven. Her story is just one of many in these communities, where women like Dayane endure daily hardships in the hope of a better future. Yet, their labor often goes unseen, overshadowed by the glittering allure of gold that continues to dominate global markets.
While the human cost of gold is harrowing, it’s often hidden behind the luxurious products it creates. Illegal gold mining in Brazil not only exploits workers but also wreaks havoc on the environment. In 2023, Brazil’s illegal gold mines covered 220,000 hectares—larger than Greater London—leading to deforestation, mercury contamination, and severe biodiversity loss.
Much of this gold ends up on the global market, with buyers in countries like Canada, Switzerland, and the UK among the top importers. According to the Instituto Escolhas think tank, more than 90% of Brazil’s gold exports to Europe come from illegal mining zones. The gold mined here ends up in jewelry and electronics, often without consumers knowing its origins.
As buyers become more conscious of the impact of their purchases, it’s important to make informed decisions. Ethical sourcing is crucial in supporting sustainable practices that do not contribute to the exploitation of vulnerable workers in gold-mining regions.
Efforts to curb illegal gold mining have been inconsistent. While President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s government has attempted to close illegal mines and restrict gold purchases, the allure of high market prices continues to fuel the industry. The promise of wealth still outweighs the risks for many miners and workers like Dayane and Natalia.
There is an urgent need for change. More effective actions must be taken to eliminate illegal gold mining and create sustainable job opportunities for the women who have been exploited for far too long. Public awareness is key to ending the vicious cycle of “dirty gold,” and consumers have the power to choose ethically sourced products. By making responsible purchasing decisions, we can all help bring an end to the exploitation that taints the gold industry.
Read more:
