UCU delegates back international solidarity and fund for Haiti

A series of motions called for greater links and solidarity with trade unionists from China, Haiti, Iran, Turkey, Palestine and Burma.
 
Delegates agreed to have a collection during their congress for educational programmes in Haiti as the country attempts to rebuild itself after the earthquake at the start of the year. The first international motion passed neatly summed up the union's commitment to international affairs as delegates reaffirmed that UCU will continue to condemn human rights abuses wherever they occur.
 
Delegates in Manchester passed a number of motions calling for UCU to work with other unions on a host of international issues including:

• fighting for the release of political prisoners in Burma
• how best to work show practical solidarity for Palestinian academic trade unionists
• protection of human rights in Iran
• pressing Turkey for the release of Kurdish politician and human rights activist, Leyla Zana.

Commenting on the motions passed this afternoon, UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'Delegates in Manchester for UCU congress this week have the freedom to debate a whole host of issues. They can do this without worrying about being arrested, beaten and even killed. There are trade unionists around the world that are not so fortunate and we must never take our freedom to debate, whatever the issue, for granted.'

Full details of UCU Congress can be found at UCU Congress 2010  This release covers motions 27-36.