UNI calls for solidarity with Tunisian affiliate FGBEF-UGTT
Some 25,000 finance workers went on strike in Tunisia on 5 July and are set to continue industrial action today 6 July. The nationwide strike, which is the first of its kind in the sector, is being organized by UNI Global Union affiliate, the Fédération générale des banques et établissements financiers (FGBEF-UGTT), after negotiations for four new collective agreements broke down.
FGBEF-UGTT has rejected proposals from employers, including the central bank, which offered a below market pay rise and failed to recognize workers’ contributions during the pandemic.
UNI is asking affiliates to write to the Tunisian bank and finance employers’ association (l’association professionnelle Tunisienne des banques et établissements financiers) urging them to resolve the current impasse.
FGBEF-UGTT members are taking action at banks, financial institutions, cash transportation companies, and insurance companies across the country, demanding wage increases and an end to precarious work.
Angelo Di Cristo, Head of UNI Finance said:
“We urge the employer’s association to get back to the negotiating table as soon as possible, and begin bargaining in good faith. Workers have contributed so much to the finance sector’s success during the pandemic, they shouldn’t have to accept anything less than a fair offer.”
See below for the template solidarity letters in English and French.
