Crackdown on trade unions in Iran
(27/07/2012) The IUF (global foodworkers' union to which UNISON is affiliated) has started a global petition with Labour Start calling for Iran to stop its persecution of trade unionists.Over the past 2 months, members of Haft Tapeh sugarworkers union's leadership council have been repeatedly contacted by security agents and pressured to dissolve the organisation and sign letters renouncing union activity in return for reinstatement to their former positions.
Former union president Ali Nejati, who was sentenced to a year's imprisonment for his union activity, has been threatened with imminent return to prison despite his having a serious heart condition. Prior to his imprisonment last year Najati previously served 6 months in prison on the same charges and was then fired from his job which he had held for 25 years.
Some Haft Tapeh leaders who served time in prison have been reemployed on inferior terms at Haft Tapeh, but on temporary contracts which leave them vulnerable to instant dismissal.
The IUF and Labour Start are calling for people to show solidarity with these trade unionists. They have started an online campaign calling for all charges against Ali Nejati to be dropped, that Mr Nejati be given all necessary medical attention and that other union leaders and members are allowed to conduct their union activity free from harassment and persecution.
You can sign the urgent action here
IUF/Labour Start action
