Brussels, 14 September 2009: The ITUC today welcomed a statement released by its Israeli affiliate Histadrut (General Federation of Labour in Israel), reconfirming the commitment of Israel’s trade union movement to peace, security and a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.

The statement expresses concern at the effects of restrictions on Palestinians’ movement and of the security wall on the lives of Palestinian workers and their families, and also calls upon the Israeli government to dismantle all illegal outposts.

Emphasising the need for dialogue and cooperation, the statement cites the agreement between the Histadrut and the Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions, which is also an ITUC affiliate, as well as initiatives to support Palestinian workers in the transport and construction sectors with the Global Union Federations ITF and BWI. It also sets out key commitments in defending the rights of Palestinians employed by Israeli companies.

“With the urgent need for decisive movement towards an acceptable solution to the Israel/Palestine conflict, this statement by the Histadrut is an important and welcome call for dialogue and progress to achieve the objective of two states co-existing in conditions of peace and security, and full respect for the rights of all working people,” said ITUC General Secretary Guy Ryder.

The ITUC represents 170 million workers in 157 countries and has 312 national affiliates. http://www.ituc-csi.org and http://www.youtube.com/ITUCCSI

For more information, please contact the ITUC Press Department on:
+32 2 224 0204 or +32 476 621 018.

Photo: Johnk85