22 KESK trade unionists released from prison in Turkey: a "temporary victory" for trade unions

Brussels, 24/11/2009

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.