The murder of trade unionists in Colombia is on the rise, with a 25% increase in 2008 compared to the previous year. The Colombian security forces are deeply implicated in the violence against trade unionists, and senior government officials regularly accuse trade unionists in Colombia of being 'terrorists'. Those responsible for the murders are almost never punished. Due to these human rights concerns, the US and Canada have both already delayed their FTA's with Colombia.
We do not believe Colombia should be rewarded with an FTA whilst workers continue to be murdered simply for standing up for their basic rights. Europe should stand together with the rest of the international community in condemning this horrific situation and telling the regime in Bogota that trade benefits will only be offered if the human rights situation improves.
The Colombian trade union movement has asked the European labour movement to support them by stopping this FTA.
What you can do:
- Write directly to Baroness Ashton, EU Trade Commissioner
- Write to your MEP
- Write to your MP
- Phone or E-mail a Friend
- Join Justice for Colombia