Los Hijos Bastardos de la Gbalizacion
Ska-P
The Bastard Children of Globalization: A Cry Against Child Labor
Ska-P's song "Los Hijos Bastardos de la Globalización" is a powerful critique of the dark side of globalization, focusing on the exploitation of child labor. The lyrics tell the story of a 12-year-old child who works tirelessly in a factory, producing toys for children in more affluent parts of the world. This stark contrast between the lives of the exploited children and those who benefit from their labor is a central theme of the song. The child in the song is unaware of concepts like globalization and human rights, highlighting their innocence and the gross injustice of their situation.
The song uses vivid imagery and strong language to convey the harsh realities faced by these children. Phrases like "víctimas reales de un juego demencial" (real victims of a demented game) and "la ira de tu dios" (the wrath of your god) emphasize the cruelty and moral bankruptcy of a system that prioritizes profit over human dignity. The repeated refrain, "NO SÉ LO QUE ES GLOBALIZACIÓN... SOLO SOY UN ESLABÓN" (I don't know what globalization is... I'm just a link), underscores the dehumanization and objectification of these children, reducing them to mere cogs in a vast, uncaring machine.
Ska-P also addresses the indifference of society, particularly in the West, to the plight of these children. The lyrics challenge listeners to consider how they would feel if it were their own children suffering in this way. The song calls out the hypocrisy and moral blindness of a world that turns a blind eye to such suffering in the name of economic gain. By referring to these children as "hijos bastardos de la globalización" (bastard children of globalization), the band underscores their abandonment and the lack of accountability from those who benefit from their exploitation.
The song is a call to action, urging listeners to recognize and address the injustices perpetuated by globalization. It serves as a reminder that behind the products we consume are real people, often children, whose lives are marred by suffering and exploitation. Ska-P's raw and unflinching portrayal of this issue aims to provoke thought and inspire change, making it a poignant and powerful piece of social commentary.