2013 Annual Survey of Violations of Trade Union Rights - Panama
| Publisher | International Trade Union Confederation |
| Publication Date | 6 June 2013 |
| Cite as | International Trade Union Confederation, 2013 Annual Survey of Violations of Trade Union Rights - Panama, 6 June 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/51b8516039.html [accessed 3 November 2019] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
Arrest of trade union leaders: In 2012, following protests by workers worldwide about the presence of President Ricardo Martinelli at the 101th ILO Conference, a warrant was issued for the investigation of the three Panamanian union leaders present at the Conference. During the judicial process, the government leaked several accusations against the leaders to the press in violation of due process rights.
Collective agreements are disrespected: In violation of a collective agreement, the banana producer, Grupo San Bosco closed down two large plantations, falsely claiming bankruptcy, leaving more than 70 workers affiliated to the Sindicato Industrial de Trabajadores de Productores Bananeros Independientes (SITRAPBI) out of work.
Denial of fundamental civil rights, police brutality, and arrest of trade unionists: Protests in October 2012 against a law to sell land within the Colón Free Zone resulted in the death of at least three people, including a young boy. The community was deeply worried that the sale would result in the loss of an important source of income for the area. Residents formed a united front, including various community groups and trade unions. The government responded by unleashing a brutal wave of repression resulting in the deaths. In solidarity, trade unions demonstrated across the country. Again, the government responded by hiring thugs to break up the protest and vandalise buildings. Several trade unionists were arrested. The law was eventually repealed.
