Sri Lanka: Indictment of women workers under the Prevention of Hostage Taking Act

As a late consequence of a sit-down strike in a 2005 labour conflict at GP Garment factory, women workers have now been indicted under the Prevention of Hostage Taking Act, following wrongful allegations by management. Persons under this charge can be convicted to lifelong imprisonment. During the process, they will be placed under remand custody, unless they are able pay very high bails. This is a scandalous effort to render union action impossible, and a very clear and blatant violation of ILO Conventions on freedom of association and collective bargaining! The legal action is designed to victimize innocent female workers. We urge you to take action by writing solidarity letters.

Download as PDF  Original Appeal by FTZ&GSEU union, July 23, 2008 >>
Download as PDF  Appeal Update, July 28, 2008 >>
Download as PDF  Press clipping Financial Times, July 27, 2008 >>
Download as Word  Sample protest letter >>