News

On 12 November, the Guatemalan unions USTAC (Trade Union of Civil Aviation Workers) and SITRADGTMICIVI (Union of Department of Transport, Ministry of Communications, Infrastructure and Housing) carried out a protest march not only demanding "Respect DHL workers" but “Respect for Workers’ Rights” in general because in Guatemala, it is not only multinational companies that disregard workers’ rights but also national ones.



A group of 70 activists gathered in front of and inside the Air Terminal Building La Aurora in Guatemala City where most companies operate, including DHL. By distributing flyers and postcards people got involved in conversations about the objective of the campaign and the issue of workers’ rights in general. Fellow workers who have shown interest in joining USTAC joined into the protest thus showing their support and agreement with the union demands.



Various speeches altered with music, all together creating a positive atmosphere of workers reaching out to other workers informing them about their rights and about what unions can do for them. Not a single negative reaction could be observed, no critical comment was made but the contrary as it was seen as a great action more than necessary in a country like Guatemala where workers’ rights are not respected.



The authorities of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the current controller John Jose Carlos, the Manager of the La Aurora International Airport and the Airport Security Manager also joined in the protest thus marking the action as a historic event in Guatemalan society.



Protests, marches and handing out of flyers were also realized in other parts of the city. The National Front (FNL) summed up with activities in front of the Ministry of Public Finance and in the Historic Center of Guatemala City.



All together a successful day which allowed USTAC and SITRADGTMICIVI to pass on the message of “Respect for Workers’ Rights” to many national and international companies, including DHL.

General Manager of International Airport La Aurora in Guatemala City receiving a campaign leaflet by an USTAC affiliate.