News

In the shadows of the Colombian peace process, the President Santos’ government is trying to weaken the Colombian health system and destroy trade unions. In protest, Colombian union Sintrasaludcol, which represents more than 10’000 private care workers, organized an international day of action against the deplorable state of affairs in the healthcare system. 
 
In a powerful and symbolic act of protest to demonstrate their frustration with the government, thousands of healthcare workers wore black instead of the usual white uniforms. The protests also highlighted corruption at SALUDCOP, one of the most important health care providers in Colombia. 
 
Government-appointed managers at SALUDCOP, the company which is responsible for the provision of healthcare to 6.5 million people, have been accused  by various medias, politicians and unions of mismanagement and corruption. A number of healthcare companies have been liquidated and restructured, exacerbating an already chaotic situation. Trade unionists affiliated to Sintrasaludcol, who are fighting against this decision, are being prevented from speaking up and their affiliation fees have not been paid to the union for months.  
 
For many years, the government and its appointed intermediaries have either failed to make the necessary investments in the healthcare sector, or misappropriated funds. In some cases, doctors and nurses have not been paid their salaries for months. Medical treatment is often postponed because of a lack of money, and patients are turned away.
 
UNICARE Director Adrian Durtschi pointed out:
“The Colombian government would be better off investing in healthcare, rather than trying to silence trade unionists and cheating them from their membership fees.”   

UNI General Secretary Philip Jennings said, “President Santos must seize this opportunity to right this wrong and make it happen. "

 "Outstanding salaries and invoices must be paid immediately to healthcare workers and decent work become the norm.”
 
Furthermore, Adriana Rosenzvaig, Regional Secretary of UNI Americas urged President Santos to respect the basic human right to healthcare.
 
“All Colombians must have access to good health services. President Santos must immediately take steps to provide the necessary investments in SALUDCOP and other health systems in crisis,” said Rosenzvaig. “It is unacceptable that sick children don’t get access to quality care because of corruption and mismanagement while the government is closing down hospitals and clinics.”
 
UNI Global Union stands with health workers in Colombia and will support its affiliate Sintrasaludcol.
 
Philip Jennings and Adriana Rosenzaig also wrote a letter to President Santos demanding immediate action, which you can find here.