Chiquita-branded bananas at a market in central London, in November 2017. (Justin TALLIS / AFP)
Victory Over Chiquita: US Banana Brand Ordered to Pay R700 Million to Victims of Terrorism
In a groundbreaking ruling, a US jury has ordered Chiquita Brands International to pay over R700 million to families affected by terrorist violence in Colombia. The jury found that Chiquita knowingly financed the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC), a designated terrorist organization involved in human rights abuses. The verdict awarded $38.3 million to surviving family members of eight victims.
Chiquita admitted in 2007 to funding the AUC, claiming they were extorted into making payments. However, the jury accepted that the money led to war crimes like homicides, kidnappings, and disappearances. The ruling sends a strong message that corporations profiting from human rights abuses will face consequences. EarthRights International, which aided the case, praised the courage of the families in seeking justice.
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