Justice for Colombia has launched a new campaign, challenging European Union trade preferences for Colombia. Astonishingly, the EU currently provides Colombia – the most dangerous country on earth for trade unionists – with special trade benefits meant only for countries that respect fundamental worker rights and human rights. Colombia clearly does not fit the bill, and JFC and allies in the trade union movement are calling for the EU to open an investigation into the regular abuses perpetrated in Colombia.
The campaign has got off to a good start thanks to support from trade unions such as Unite, UNISON, the GMB, ATL, Connect and the NUJ – all of whom have contacted the European Trade Commissioner, Lady Ashton, requesting that she order an investigation. The CUT trade union federation, the largest union organisation in Colombia, has also asked the EU to begin an investigation. Other organisations are expected to add their weight to the call for an investigation in the coming days and weeks.
JFC is requesting that all supporters contact their MEPs to ensure that they will also back the campaign to have Colombia investigated. You can get involved goto http://www.justiceforcolombia.org/?link=3_0_3