An investigation by the Associated Press revealed that human rights abuses, including slavery and rape, as well as child labour are prevalent in Malaysia's palm oil industry. The investigation documents widespread labour abuses, including forced labour, debt bondage, child labour and sexual harassment. Workers live in poor conditions and work long hours for minimal pay. Human rights violations also include physical violence and lack of medical care. In the face of such abuses, workers are unable to escape their situation of exploitation since they are hired on a day-to-day basis by subcontractors, and their passports are confiscated. In addition, women face sexual harassment and rape, with some cases involving minors. The Associated Press documents the case of a 16-year-old girl who was raped by her boss and threatened with an axe. Women perform the most difficult jobs, working in hazardous conditions and carrying heavy loads. This can cause long-term health issues, including collapsed wombs and miscarriages, that are left untreated. Major Western banks, financial institutions and brands have been linked to these abusive supply chains.