International trade union movement pledges support for trade unionists

A special conference held in Harare from 28 to 29 September 2010 on the trade union rights situation expressed full support for the Zimbabwe trade union movement in its struggle against violations of trade union rights and for the strengthening of democratic accountability and institutions in Zimbabwe. The two-day Conference organised by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) which brought together representatives from the ZCTU and affiliates, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and national trade union centres in Africa, Europe and the USA discussed the Report of the ILO Commission of Inquiry on Zimbabwe and follow-up action.

Sharan Burrow, General Secretary of the ITUC, in her address to the delegates, pledged continued support for the ZCTU and its affiliates in their efforts to protect and promote trade union and human rights in Zimbabwe and added, "Trade unions around the world stand in awe of your absolute determination, of the vision that you have for a dignified, democratic Zimbabwe. We stand by you.'

Lovemore Matombo, ZCTU President, pointed out that the findings of the Commission of Inquiry had vindicated the numerous complaints made by the ZCTU and its affiliates on persistent trade union and human rights violations, demanded that the Government of Zimbabwe fulfil its pledge to implement the recommendations of the COI without delay and expressed gratitude for the support from the international trade union movement.
The Conference also called for the withdrawal of all court cases against the ZCTU and demanded an immediate halt to further harassment of trade unionists and issued the following statement. (sadocc)