Sugarcane and Steelworkers Strikes in Iran

Details: Published on Friday, 11 January 2019 03:50; Written by editor

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A Socialist Project e-bulletin ... No. 1738 ... January 11, 2019
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Sugarcane and Steelworkers’ Strikes in Iran

International Alliance in Support of Workers in Iran

In the past two months, two major strikes by the workers of "Iran National Steel Industrial Group" (INSIG) in the city of Ahvaz and "Haft Tapeh Cane Sugar Agro-Industrial Company" in Shush, took place simultaneously.

Workers in both industries have been fighting against privatization of their respective companies and unpaid wages. In addition, workers have been calling for the removal of corrupt management and domination of what steelworkers have called "The Mafia" in their industries. Workers are also protesting against the government’s "free market" policies, which have led to austerity measures, massive corruption and ever-increasing job insecurity. Workers have denounced the inexplicable practices of the "Iranian Privatization Organization," an entity... created by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Finance. Decisions of "Privatization Organization," which is under the direction of the government, has led to rampant nepotism and shady practices that resulted in selling off public assets, properties and companies to people with special privileges, who are closely connected with authorities.