Less than a month ago, mineworkers in Bulqiza (a region of eastern Albania) formed a trade union. Five days later, their employer -- AlbChrome -- responded by sacking the union chairman.
The workers walked off the job, demanding his reinstatement as well as higher wages and more generally a respect for workers rights. The police were called in, and other union leaders and activists were arrested and questioned.
Twelve days ago, the company sacked another member of the union executive.
Facing continuing attacks from the employer and police, the strike was ended as government officials promised to look into things.
But the attacks on the union continue, and on 12 December, yet another union leader was threatened with dismissal and demoted.
The union needs our solidarity right now.
Please take a moment to add your name to the call on the Albanian government and Albchrome to respect workers rights, reinstate the sacked leaders and begin serious negotiations with the union - click here.
And one more thing - you may recall that we recently told you about the IUF's new campaign demanding respect for workers' rights at Coca-Cola. Our friends at RadioLabour have just produced this interview with the IUF's Ron Oswald in which he explains what's at stake. It's well worth listening to.
Thank you!