Ali Shari Ali, Iraq Teachers’ Union
Ali stressed that his union was non-political and boasted 400,000 members, 75,000 in Baghdad. The union had shed its Ba’athist association post-Saddam. A primary committee was formed on 1 May 2003 with 2 branches in Baghdad. Ali recognised that women had a pivotal part to play in the reconstruction of Iraq as they made up a third of the Teachers’ Union membership.
In July 2003 a conference resulted in media coverage and a marketing drive for increasing union operations - it included producing union booklets, issuing a monthly newspaper, organising art exhibitions and the active sharing of festivals (at the National Theatre in Baghdad and on International Children’s Day).
This was a huge success - people who had been expelled from the union or had left through fear began returning: 30,000 teachers have returned to their jobs.
British colleagues were invited to visit schools and institutions in Iraq to see how reconstruction was progressing.
Tens of acres of land that was previously used by the military and security forces are now being used to build houses for teachers and their families. The following are also priorities:
* subsidised IT courses;
* trade union conferences;
* a modern education system;
* abolition of corporal punishment; and
* a focus on children’s rights.
What is needed?
* the reconstruction of buildings is paramount in getting unions back on their feet;
* training in trade union activities;
* sponsorship by the British government for trade unionists to take higher degrees;
* sponsorship and assistance to create a cultural centre in Kurdistan;
* colleges and academics here to get involved in sponsorship;
* modern education courses, that can be web-based and available online;
* introduction of citizenship and human rights as subject areas in the core curriculum; and
* a conference and workshops on human rights, organised by the Ministry of Culture.
The general election was referred to as the ‘scent of democracy and liberty’.
The 1987 law banning trade unions should be repealed and a new labour code should be established.
Attacks by extremists were seen as an obstacle to organising as many were afraid to join trade unions or attend meeting because of intimidation.
Extremists were feeding on unemployment so it is imperative that employment is seen as a priority.
Questions and comments from delegates
It was noted that the Teachers’ Union had been a front organisation for Saddam and wondered what changes had occurred. Ali responded that the union had collapsed with the regime and everything stolen or destroyed. The union had begun completely anew with voluntary help from members. The old regime had gone and with it the corruption. The Teachers’ Union was looking forward and recruiting for a free, multicultural organisation.
A question was asked about unity. The movement was being built across Iraq and embraced all cities and all workers. Organising in Kurdistan was not only for Kurds. The movement supported pluralism so people were free to join any trade union.
It was noted that language would be a barrier to providing direct training.
One delegate asked when the new draft labour code might be passed. He was told that it was going to be put to the incoming assembly for ratification. The Federation had problems with some articles and these reservations would be put to the ICFTU and ILO.
One person who had spent time in Iraq on active duty during the Gulf War said he was pleased with the statistics on the increase in teacher and student numbers since 1993. He aimed to visit Iraq to observe developments as well as to enjoy the ‘wonderful’ tourist opportunities!
Posted at August 5, 2005 10:26 AM