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Call for support for May Day celebrations in Turkey
9 April 2009
The ITF is calling on affiliates to back workers in Turkey as they gear up for Labour Day on 1 May. Trade unionists have in the past borne the brunt of police violence during previous years’ celebrations.
The ITF has urged unions to send a protest email to the Turkish government to reinforce the federation’s demand for 1 May to be recognised as Labour Day by the Turkish government. It is calling on the government to make the move as part of ongoing assistance to its Turkish affiliates, Tumtis and Hava-Is.
Last year May Day celebrations were disrupted as police attacked venues, spraying people with pepper spray, carrying out brutal beatings and making arrests, all of which received worldwide media attention.
ITF inland transport section secretary Mac Urata commented: “The ITF strongly urges the government in Ankara and the governor of Istanbul to stop hindering trade union demonstrations and 1 May festivals - including those held in Taksim Square in the capital city. Turkey claims to recognise workers’ rights but the government’s actions fail to live up to these claims.”
Gabriel Mocho, ITF civil aviation section secretary added: “The rights to freedom of speech and of assembly are fundamental rights, for all citizens including workers and their unions. That’s why we are urging all our affiliates to show solidarity.”
An international delegation of trade unionists and members of the European Parliament is scheduled to attend this year’s May Day events in Turkey.
More information: http://www.itfglobal.org/solidarity/maydayturkey.cfm/letter/33/
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