The supervisory authorities dismissed 28 shoe factory workers in Kairouan, as reported by the Tunisian General Labor Union, in response to their demands for better working conditions, guarantees of their rights, and dignified work environments, amid ongoing violations of their basic rights. In addition, the factory management filed complaints against several workers and the general secretary of the local Labor Union in Sbikha, “Jamel Cherif”, consequently, the public prosecution detained three factory workers, along with unionist “Jamel Cherif”, while keeping the remaining workers released on bail, pending their court hearing on Thursday, November 14.
This action follows the workers’ initiation of a series of peaceful protests since October, condemning the harsh working conditions they face and calling on their basic rights guaranteed by laws and protected by both international and local labor agreements.
The right to work does not only involve the provision of employment, but also fair and proper working conditions that respect Human dignity and ensure a decent life as article 6 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights affirms ” The States Parties to the present Covenant recognize the right to work, which includes the right of everyone to have the opportunity to earn his living by work, freely chosen or accepted, and to take appropriate measures to safeguard this right.”
In addition to that, the arrests, prosecutions, and the arbitrary dismissals of the unionists and factory workers, represent a violation of their rights and a restriction on the freedom of union activity. The Convention on Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to organize and the Right to organize and to bargain collectively enshrined in International Labor Convention, protect workers’ rights to form and join unions without discrimination or punishment on the background of their union activities. Additionally, Section 41 of the Tunisian Constitution stipulates the right of unionism, including the right to strike.
On this matter, Intersection Association for Rights and Freedoms deems it necessary to express:
-Its full solidarity and support for the factory workers and unionist “Jamel Cherif” due to their union activities and their defense of their legitimate rights, which are protected under local laws and international agreements.
-Its condemnation of the arbitrary dismissals of workers for asserting their rights, and the state’s silence on the inadequate working conditions, especially for women, which violate basic Human Rights and fail to ensure healthcare, social coverage, and a safe working environment.
-Its call for an end to the targeting and harassment of unionists, activists, and Human Rights defenders, and for the respect of the freedom of union activity.
-Its demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, the dismissal of all charges, and the protection of their well-being.
-Its request for the Tunisian state to enforce laws that guarantee the rights of workers and address all violations and abuses committed against them.
-Its emphasis on protecting women from exploitative working conditions and ensuring equal treatment and dignified work conditions.