Hangaw Abdulla Khan, President of Kurdish Union Federation
An initial background on the trade union movement in Kurdistan and the areas of operation was given. There are six trade unions in Iraqi Kurdistan affiliated to the Federation covering transport, construction and other trades. Membership stands at 100,000 (card holders). All the Federation’s revenue is generated from membership fees.
In 1991, two sanctions were imposed on Kurdistan: one by the UN alongside the creation of a ‘safe haven’ and a second sanction was introduced by Saddam because of the UN safe haven. During this period, villages were destroyed, causing a mass exodus of young people.
In 1992 a regional government was granted to the area. The Federation formed openly and was able to operate without interference. Civil society organisations were established free from state intervention.
Khan appealed to trade unionists in Britain to support the movement in Iraq Kurdistan. He made an open invitation to British colleagues to see the achievements that have been made in recent times. He said the region was safe for people to visit and encouraged people to come as tourists, as investment was badly needed and unemployment was high. He conveyed special thanks to the Fire Brigades Union for the donations that they made. He said the money had been distributed to the five governance areas to assist in building capacity.
What is needed?
* assistance for reconstruction: trade union buildings are still shells; in addition to buildings, equipment and furniture are needed, especially computers, cars and faxes;
* a cultural and training centre; and
* training in Iraq/Kurdistan and abroad.
Posted at August 5, 2005 10:21 AM