From the AFT e-Activist Network:
Over the objections of the House and Senate leadership, the president has submitted the Colombia Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to Congress for its consideration.
The AFT strongly opposes moving forward on the Colombia FTA, based on our deep concern about the plight of trade unionists in that country. In 2007 alone, 39 Colombian trade unionists were murdered. The Colombian government continues to systematically undermine union members’ rights. These trade unionists operate in a climate of constant fear and intimidation. A recent AFL-CIO report shows the combination of ongoing assassinations, death threats and violence against union members and their families creates an environment for trade unionists that makes it impossible for them to fully and confidently exercise their freedom to form unions, bargain collectively, go on strike or criticize the government.
