COLOMBO – Workers’ rights organisations including Clean Clothes Campaign (CCC) and Labour Behind the Label have urged Sri Lanka’s authorities to meet with trade unions to establish mechanisms that will protect workers at a time of political chaos.
It follows a letter the NGOs addressed to the country’s government in the summer, calling for emergency relief, financial aid and a political resolution, as the nation’s issues impact sectors such as garment manufacturing.
“Workers in Sri Lanka have faced systematic violations of rights by employers for decades and COVID-19 created even more precarious working conditions. At a time when workers require more protection and representation than ever before, unions play a critical role in safeguarding workers’ rights,” a statement from the non-profits said.
