The Realm of Good Intentions Reflections on the Volkswagen Do Brasil DecisionShould human rights defenders welcome court decisions that punish companies for using slave labour to increase their profits? Most seriously of all, it does not take enforcement measures to prevent slave labour, particularly in rural areas. The Brazilian case concerns a civil claim for damages, and the labour court did not have jurisdiction to judge crimes relating to slave labour. The conviction of Volkswagen do Brasil for slave labour is highly symbolic, prompting reflection on the role of human rights within modern corporations. The message of the judgment may be understood as follows: “If you use slave labour in Brazil, you don’t need to worry too much.