In January of this year, 129 workers at the Electrolux washing machine factory in Rayon, Thailand were summarily dismissed for wanting to discuss wages and conditions with Electrolux management. These sackings are quite clearly aimed at weakening the local union and intimidating workers. The workers have been conducting a number […]
Monthly Archives: February 2013
31 posts
Pneumoconiosis is an occupational lung disease caused by the inhalation of dust. Official statistics put the number of Chinese workers suffering from pneumoconiosis at 650,000, though independent health experts say that the real figure is much higher. While the Chinese government has passed laws in regard to the care of […]
On the second anniversary of the pro-democracy movement, the government has stepped up repressive measures against demonstrators. Latest reports indicate that at least one demonstrator has been killed by security forces. Many others remain in jail. The political situation in Bahrain is heavily influenced by its neighbour, Saudi Arabia, and […]
Even though asbestos is not mined in Australia any more and its use has been banned since 2003, Australia still has the highest per capita rate of asbestos related disease in the world. The reason is that asbestos was used very extensively in both commercial and residential buildings. A coalition […]
As previously reported, progressive forces are still organising in Syria amid a seemingly stalemated civil war situation, and an economy in free fall. It has been estimated that in 2012, Syria’s GDP declined by almost 30% while the official unemployment rate climbed to 35%. In addition, disputes between different forces […]
Dutch fascist Geert Wilders is descending on Melbourne on Tues 19 Feb. A protest will be happening to send a clear message that his anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant views are not welcome here. However, it is not as yet clear where the meeting will be taking place. Activists in Melbourne are […]
Teachers in Victoria, Australia are in a pay and conditions dispute with the State Government. The Government is playing hardball and went to court to try and prevent the union from going out on strike. They didn’t succeed. If you’re in Victoria, please join striking teachers and support staff on […]
On Wednesday of this week, major worker rallies were held in Indonesia in five major cities. These protests are a continuation of the unprecedented mobilisations that were witnessed in 2012. Workers are looking to consolidate the gains of last year and are seeking better health care provisions, establishment of a […]
There are approximately 2.5 million workers employed in mines in the north western Indian state of Rajasthan, often working in unsafe conditions. A recent study found that 23% of these workers had the presence of silicosis disease along with associated tuberculosis (TB). After intense lobbying, the Rajasthan government has agreed […]
Migrant workers, who comprise a staggering 80% of Qatar’s population, continue to work in a highly repressive and exploitative system. A ban on trade unions, an employment system akin to bonded labour and appalling housing conditions are a feature of the ‘Qatar economic miracle’. Unfortunately the situation for workers in […]