International Solidarity Works: Iraq Government Reverses Wage Cut Order
Tuesday, September 16th, 2008Following days of demonstrations and strikes by thousands of workers, the Iraqi government reversed its order to cut wages by up to 30% and eliminate many industrial labor benefits. The authorities agreed to direct negotiations with the representatives of the workers.
Workers were able to achieve a number of major demands, such as stopping pay and benefit cuts, and above all advancing the demand for freedom of association and other labor rights that have been denied to Iraqi workers both under the dictatorship and by the U.S./British occupation. The government agreed to retroactive payment of the wage cuts put into effect and to meet with worker representatives over other issues, such as workplace hazards. The Parliament must now consider a labor rights law that recognizes, respects and protects labor rights in conformity with International Labor Organization standards.
More than 275 people responded within 48 hours to the urgent appeal USLAW sent to its supporters asking them to sign electronic letters to the Iraqi Ambassador in Washington DC and the Iraq representative to the UN in New York. Similar efforts were mounted in other countries around the world. The combination of determined courageous worker protests in the face of threats and violence and international solidarity turned an attack on the living standards of workers into a victory. However, promises are not the same as performance. We must be ready to act again if the Iraqi government and parliament fail to follow through.
Thanks to all those who responded by sending protest messages to the Iraqi government.
