Middle East/Maghreb: "End the repression. Social and political responses are needed!" insists ITUC
Triggered by the Tunisian revolution, then given impetus by that of Egypt, the wave of protests spreading throughout the Middle East and the Maghreb is growing by the day. The response to it has become increasingly violent, culminating in recent days with the atrocious massacres committed in Libya by the brutal dictatorship of Colonel Gaddafi, regarding which the ITUC has just launched an urgent appeal (*).
Democracy, Fundamental Rights and Freedoms at Risk in USA As Wisconsin and Other States Attack Unions
Workers across the world are shocked to see the rights of teachers, health workers and other public employees attacked in the ’Land of the Free’. Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and other Republican Party state governors including in Indiana and Ohio have launched a major assault on the rights of public sector workers to union representation and collective bargaining, with heavy pay cuts and new obstacles to freedom of association. Demonstrations have taken place in several US states over recent days, as opposition grows to the coordinated anti-union onslaught, which has its roots in the ultra-conservative “tea party” movement.
Unions Welcome Pathway to Green Economy in UN Environment Report
A green economy can mean higher overall employment and better jobs, and is not just a luxury for wealthy countries, reveals the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) in its Green Economy report released today. Supported by concrete examples from around the world, and a thorough macroeconomic analysis, the report underlines what the labour movement has maintained for several years: that a Green Economy, based on the right principles and properly planned, can deliver for workers and the poor.
ITUC Urges Gaddafi to End Massacre of Civilians in Libya
Horrified by the ferocity of the repression seen over the last five days in Libya, where at least 300 protestors have been killed and the number of injured has reached startling proportions, the ITUC has called on its affiliated organisations to mobilise without delay to urge their governments to put pressure on the 42-year old tyranny of Colonel Gaddafi and ensure an immediate end to the atrocities.
World Day of Social Justice, 2011
Today marks the World Day of Social Justice, declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 and first celebrated on 20 February 2009. Trade unions observe this important day in recognition of the true aim of social development: to create “a society for all”.