22 KESK trade unionists released from prison in Turkey: a “temporary victory” for trade unions
A two day hearing in the High Criminal Court in Izmir resulted in the release of 22 trade unionists who had been languishing in jail for the last six months. They strenuously contest allegations that they are members and/or supporters of terrorist organisations. If found guilty, they might go to prison for between seven-and-a-half to 15 years.
For the most part they are members of the Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions (KESK) and members of its teachers’ union Eğitim-Sen. Many of them hold important posts within their trade union, in particular for women’s affairs.
However the trial is not over. “Although not final, this release is a victory. It brings a temporary end to fundamental attacks against trade unionists, their organisations and the principle of freedom of association. But the trial continues – the next hearing will be in March 2010, and we will keep a close eye on it. It must not be used as a ruse to undermine normal trade union activities.” John Monks, the General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) said.
Was this article interesting and relevant for you? Do you have any comments?
You can post a reply to this article here.