Turkish and Kurdish workers, a group of labourers and students came together to establish the “Göçmen İşçiler Sendikası” (Migrant Workers Union) to defend the rights of workers who migrated from Turkey to Britain and to support the struggle for fair wages and better working conditions. The Migrant Workers Union will continue its activities as part of the “United Voices of The World” union, which focuses on migrant workers.
In the establishment of the union, a significant role was played by a scientific study titled “The Outlook of Turkish Migrants Working in the Service Sector in London: A Milestone in Identifying Issues in the London Labor Market.” The study revealed that migrant workers were employed in precarious jobs with low wages, unable to benefit from even the most basic rights achieved by the working class in Britain, and unaware of most of their rights. Based on these scientific data, the union determined a suitable working method.
Drawing attention to the urgent need for solidarity in the midst of increasing living costs and the ongoing economic crisis, the Migrant Workers Union emphasizes the importance of mobilization and collective action to create meaningful change.
In a statement issued by the union, it was stated, “Our union will provide support for accessing legal assistance in cases such as unfair dismissals, discrimination, or unpaid wages, and will provide the right to legal representation in disputes with employers.”
“We will provide a supportive community where our members can acquire new skills, receive education, and learn about their rights in the workplace. We will also organize various cultural and educational activities, including Turkish, Kurdish, and English language courses.”