SINTRAVALORES denounces new attacks by Prosegur in Colombia
In contrast to the people of Colombia, who are celebrating the arrival of the peace agreements, is Prosegur, that continues straining relations with the union.
Our affiliate, SINTRAVALORES, representing workers of Prosegur Colombia, has informed us that Prosegur has started attacks against the union and members of the National Steering Committee. In particular, offences inflicted on the Neiva branch director, National Vice President, Hector Fabio Bermeo, prominent union leader, defender of human rights of his brothers and sisters, and a worker employed with the company for more than 15 years, who under unjustified arguments was called to discharge hearings and sanctioned without any evidence or consideration of his defense.
The reason for all of this is to find grounds for dismissal, given the case that union rights are lifted, and thus try to destroy the union. Also, SINTRAVALORES makes other allegations with regards to the many attempts of Prosegur to act against freedom of association and the right of association of its members; when only a few months before it expressed its will to change and improve labor relations that have been deteriorating for many years due to constant conflicts.
It is clear that Prosegur continues with its anti-union practices. Its conduct in Colombia contradicts the need to establish a culture of dialogue within the framework of the inexorable march of the country towards the end of the war. Prosegur, the multinational company, continues to violate internationally recognized rights.
UNI Americas will monitor and follow up SINTRAVALORES' allegations. UNI Americas continues to urge Prosegur to comply with its agreements with the union in Colombia, to respect human and union rights, and to end its confrontation with our affiliate SINTRAVALORES.
Colombia needs multinational companies to contribute in the efforts to maintain a work environment free of violence for exercising union rights and to construct real and effective labor peace. Prosegur has to think seriously about its role in a society that wants to leave behind all violence and live a new stage of dialogue.