‘Justice and Solidarity’ Protest Held in London

A protest under the theme of ‘Justice and Solidarity’ was held in front of the Turkish Embassy in London, organized by the Solidarity with the People of Turkey (SPOT) campaign. The demonstration was attended by numerous trade unionists and representatives of various organizations, demanding the release of those detained, including BİRTEK-SEN President Mehmet Türkmen.

SPOT Chair and National Education Union (NEU) Executive Member Louise Regan attempted to deliver two letters to the Turkish Embassy, expressing concerns over increasing pressure and detentions in Turkey.

Regan stated to the protests that police had informed her the embassy official refused to accept the letters.

Speaking at the demonstration, Stephen Russell, International Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), highlighted the importance of trade unionists defending workers’ rights and expressed continued support for Mehmet Türkmen and his union.

While Mark Becan, International Secretary of UNISON, one of the UK’s largest trade unions with 1.5 million members, attempted to deliver a letter from UNISON General Secretary Christina McAnea to the embassy, but officials refused to accept it.

Becan reaffirmed UNISON’s solidarity with Mehmet Türkmen and BİRTEK-SEN members.