Il caporalato. Una storia
Carocci editore, 2026

The book by Giovanni Ferrarese (CNR-ISMed)
featured in a report by TGR Basilicata (April 2026)

The book Il caporalato. Una storia (Carocci editore, 2026) by Giovanni Ferrarese (CNR-ISMed) was the focus of a report by TGR Basilicata broadcast in April 2026.

The book offers a long-term account of the phenomenon of the caporalato in Italy, highlighting its historical roots and how it has evolved over time. During the interview, the author emphasises how the phenomenon has gradually spread beyond the agricultural sector, highlighting the presence of forms of exploitation in sectors such as construction and care work. Particular attention is paid to the context of Basilicata, where the phenomenon takes on specific characteristics linked to migration flows and the organisation of seasonal agricultural work.

The book also analyses the dynamics of illegal labour brokerage and highlights how labour exploitation has adapted to economic and social changes, whilst retaining persistent structural elements. Ferrarese’s work therefore serves as a useful tool for understanding the phenomenon, contributing to public debate and policies to combat it.