Trade unions in Britain and around the world are urged to show solidarity with Iranian workers in the steel, oil, petrochemical, railways, and their strikes for fair treatment and working conditions.

The workers of Iran National Steel Industrial Group (INSIG) in Ahvaz started a major strike on 22 January in support of their demands for the upholding of their economic rights and the reinstatement of sacked colleagues. This was the second time in one month that steelworkers were on strike. Yesterday INSIG management reached a new agreement with the steel workers in Ahvaz and the strike ended successfully.

Despite initially returning to work at the end of December 2023 following promises from their employers and local government senior representatives, the workers were forced to resume their strike when employers failed to fulfill those promises.

Thousands of workers went on strike and took to the streets of central Ahvaz, the capital of Khūzestān province, southwestern Iran, to demand justice. From the Khuzestan Governorate to the National Bank, their voices resound, echoing a collective cry for dignity and respect in the workplace.

The resilience of these workers is evident as they refuse to relent in the face of intimidation and empty promises. Their resolve underscores a fundamental truth: the struggle for workers’ rights transcends borders and demands international solidarity.

The Union of Metalworkers and Mechanics of Iran (UMMI) has called on industrial workers, colleagues, and retirees across the steel industry in Iran to unite against exploitative practices and corporate greed. Their message is clear: together, we can challenge the forces that seek to undermine our collective well-being.

Gawain Little, General Secretary of CODIR, addressing the Executive meeting on 30th January, stated:

“In the face of adversity, the Iranian steelworkers’ unwavering commitment to their cause serves as a beacon of hope for workers everywhere. Their courage in the face of repression and injustice reminds us that the fight for justice is not confined to any one nation but is a global struggle that requires our collective strength and solidarity.

“As the strike in Ahvaz concludes, we stand in solidarity with the Iranian steelworkers and reaffirm our commitment to supporting their struggle for fair treatment and just working conditions. Trade unions in Britain and across the world are urged to join us in this crucial struggle, standing shoulder to shoulder with our Iranian brothers and sisters as they continue to fight for their rights.”

CODIR has called for all forces supporting the struggle for trade union, human, and democratic rights in Iran to support the demands of Iranian workers through issuing statements of solidarity.

CODIR requests that trade union affiliates write to the embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran (please see below for the address) to make clear their opposition to the lack of implementation of the Job Classification Act and demand that the Iranian government takes steps to translate the articles of the Act into action.

Mr Seyed Mahdi Hosseini Matin, Ambassador

Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran

16 Princes Gate

LONDON,

SW7 1PT

Email: iranemb.lon@mfa.gov.ir

CODIR is also asking for individuals to write to their local MP, drawing their attention to the worsening situation inside Iran and requesting that they write to the embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran on similar grounds, as well as using their platform in Parliament, to draw attention to the plight of the people of Iran.

Office

Central Executive Council

CODIR