The Tunisian Labor Union (UGTT) expressed its refusal of a decision made by the Ministry of Social Affairs on Monday. Indeed, the latter has canceled several conciliation sessions scheduled for August 4 and 5 in Tunis. These meetings were to focus on strikes in the transport and agriculture sectors.
According to the UGTT, these cancellations have been decided unilaterally. The administration of labor conflicts has provided no legal foundations to justify this measure. As a result, the union accuses the ministry of having violated article 378 of the labor code. This article imposes the holding of conciliation sessions as soon as the strike notice was submitted.
The union organization considers this decision as an attack on union rights. It also alerts the risks of social tensions that could result from it. It therefore holds the Government and the Ministry of Social Affairs for responsible for any deterioration of the social climate.
In addition, the UGTT recalls the importance of social dialogue in conflict prevention. It calls for respecting national laws as well as international conventions signed by Tunisia. According to her, this is an essential condition for maintaining stability in the sectors concerned.
Finally, the union center claims to be total support for the legitimate movements of workers. She says she is ready to defend their rights, whether material or moral. It also promises to firmly oppose any attempt to violate the Constitution, international agreements or the law supervising the National Council for Social Dialogue.
