Agricultural
Workers Trade Group Board (AWTG – IUF)
Resolution on the strike and mobilization of the
Sugarcane Cutters of Colombia
NOTING THAT
- The
sugarcane cutters of Colombia led a 56-day general
strike with the support and backing of major
organizations, including the United Workers’ Federation
of Colombia (CUT), Indigenous Peoples groups, and the
IUF;
- This union action contributed to dignify the work and
the quality of life of cane cutters and their families;
- The Associated Work Cooperatives (CTAs) are a
euphemism used to cover up an outrageous outsourcing
system that allows both Government and employers to
evade their responsibilities towards workers;
THE BOARD NOW RESOLVES TO
- Give
its full support to the SINALCORTEROS International
Campaign, the CUT and the IUF, backing the just demands
of the sugarcane workers and contributing to denounce
the shameful working conditions imposed by the CTAs;
- Back
any actions decided by the CUT to fight for trade union
freedom, defend collective bargaining and put an end to
the Associated Work Cooperatives, along with any other
form of outsourcing schemes;
- Demand
that Colombia’s national government and the association
of sugarcane businesses (ASOCAÑA) honor and fully
implement the key Conventions of the International Labor
Organization (ILO), which have been ratified by the
Colombian government.
Adwoa Sakyi
