Watch The Chocolate Case

The Chocolate Case is a documentary film that explores the cocoa industry, and how it is largely responsible for modern-day slavery in West Africa. The film is directed by Benthe Forrer and written by Teun van de Keuken, who also stars in the film alongside Roland Duong. The film follows Teun van de Keuken, who is a journalist and a chocolate lover. He decides to investigate the cocoa industry after realizing that the chocolate he enjoys may have been produced with the use of child labor. He starts his journey by tracing cocoa beans back to their origin in West Africa, where he discovers that cocoa farmers are forced to sell their crops at very low prices, which makes it impossible for them to earn a living wage. As a result, they are forced to resort to child labor to keep their farms running.

Teun also visits several chocolate factories in Europe, where he finds out that the companies that produce chocolate are not adhering to their own policies on ethical sourcing. This means that even if they claim to be using cocoa that is free from child labor, they may actually be sourcing cocoa from farms where child labor is rampant.

The film explores how the cocoa industry is controlled by a few large corporations, who have no incentive to change the status quo. They are able to keep the prices of cocoa low by exploiting farmers, and use their immense wealth and political power to resist any attempts at regulation.

The Chocolate Case also highlights the impact that the cocoa industry has on the lives of children in West Africa. Many children are forced to work long hours in hazardous conditions, and are denied an education or any chance of a better life. The film features interviews with several children who have been forced to work on cocoa farms, and their stories are both heart-breaking and inspiring.

The film also explores the efforts of activists and NGOs who are working to tackle the issue of child labor in the cocoa industry. One such organization is Tony's Chocolonely, which was founded by Teun van de Keuken himself. The company aims to produce chocolate that is completely free from child labor, and has been successful in raising awareness about the issue among consumers.

Overall, The Chocolate Case is an eye-opening and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on the dark side of the chocolate industry. It shows how something as simple as a bar of chocolate can be the result of exploitation and abuse, and urges viewers to take action to demand change. The film is well-made and engaging, and is a must-watch for anyone who cares about social justice and ethical sourcing.

In conclusion, The Chocolate Case is a compelling documentary that highlights the injustice and exploitation that is rampant in the cocoa industry. It is a well-made and informative film that will leave viewers with a deeper understanding of the issue, and will hopefully inspire them to take action.