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| The WCL condemns wave of repression that batters CUBA |
Since a wave of repression started on March 18th, 2003, already 78 people have been arrested in Cuba, among them several trade union leaders from the CUTC (Unitary Council of Cuban Workers), an independent trade union organisation affiliated to the CLAT (Latin-American Workers' Central) and the WCL (World Confederation of Labour). All possessions of the trade union were confiscated (fax, telephones, documents…). Unfortunately it was not the first time the CUTC experienced repression and harassment by the Cuban authorities. Several times in the past the ILO (International Labour Organisation) Trade Union Freedom Committee has treated complaints regarding this file.
The WCL fears the worst for the detainees who could end up to 15 years in prison under the pretext of violating Law 88 "to protect the national and economic independence of Cuba" the so-called "Mordaza" Law. These acts of repression are a clear mockery of the most elementary human and trade union rights, at a moment when the Human Rights Committee is meeting in Geneva. Christine Chanet, special representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Cuba, was also barred from Cuba on March 14th 2003.
At the beginning of March, Paul Nielson, European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, went to Cuba to open a delegation of the European Commission. Although anxious to strengthen the economic and commercial relations with Cuba, he insisted on respect for human rights.
The commercial relations between Cuba and the world, on the other hand, are getting better, which is a positive evolution for the Cuban people, particularly as it creates decent jobs in a country with few economic prospects.
More than ever an independent trade union movement is necessary. Collective agreements that guarantee the application of the ILO Conventions in particular remain a challenge.
The WCL leaders, in a meeting of the Executive Board in Brussels on March 1st and April 1st and 2nd, decided to boost the large-scale campaign for the liberation of the CUTC trade union leaders and for the opening up of the Cuban Government to independent trade union organisations. |
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For more information, please contact WCL Press Department :
Phone: +32 (2) 285 47 55 - e-mail: info@cmt-wcl.org |
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