A Trade Union from Brotherly Iraq Expresses Solidarity with Detained Algerian Trade Unionist Ali Mammeri

Calls for immediate release

The General Union of Electricity Workers in Iraq expressed its solidarity with the Algerian unionist. Ali Mammeri...was arrested in Algeria on March 20 while on duty. Mammeri, who serves as president of the National Union of Employees of the "Union under the umbrella of the Syndicate of Productive Forces" (COSYFOP), was arrested under circumstances that have not been officially clarified, sparking a wave of angry reactions from unions and human rights organizations.

In an official statement, the Iraqi Trade Union affirmed its full support for workers' right to freely practice their union activities without harassment, considering Maamari's arrest a "blatant violation of union freedoms and human rights." The statement emphasized that solidarity with independent unions and defending workers' rights are fundamental pillars of free union activity.

In the same context, the union called on the competent authorities in Algeria to Immediate release of Mammeri And to respect internationally guaranteed trade union freedoms, warning that such measures could negatively impact the trade union climate in the region.

Growing concerns about trade union freedoms in the Arab world

This arrest comes at a time of growing concerns about the state of trade union freedoms in a number of Arab countries, where independent unions face increasing challenges ranging from administrative harassment to arrests. International human rights organizations stress the need to protect unionists from any arbitrary practices that hinder their role in defending workers' rights.

In light of these developments, attention is turning to the Algerian government's response to the demands for Mammeri's release, with speculation mounting over how the relevant authorities will respond to pressure from international unions and human rights activists.

Trade unions' mutual support remains essential in confronting any violations of workers' rights. While calls for Ali Maamari's release continue, issues of union freedoms in the Arab world remain at the heart of the human rights debate, calling for further efforts to strengthen the role of unions and protect their members from any harassment that might hinder their legitimate work.