Dear Brothers and Sisters,
The Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SOCOTU) expresses its deep concern and strong condemnation regarding the detention of HAK-İŞ Confederation President Mr. Mahmut Arslan and Deputy General Secretary Ms. Fatma Zengin by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission.
We stand in full solidarity with our brothers and sisters in HAK-İŞ and with all humanitarian volunteers who have been detained while peacefully supporting humanitarian aid efforts for the people of Gaza.
The detention of trade union leaders and humanitarian activists is unacceptable and raises serious concerns about their safety, human rights, and freedom. Trade union leaders must never be targeted for standing in solidarity with people suffering from war, hunger, and humanitarian crisis.
As part of the international trade union movement, SOCOTU calls for:
- The immediate and unconditional release of Mr. Mahmut Arslan, Ms. Fatma Zengin, and all detained humanitarian volunteers.
- Respect for international humanitarian law and the protection of all civilians and humanitarian missions.
- Urgent action by the international community, global trade unions, and human rights organizations to ensure the safety and legal rights of all detainees.
SOCOTU also calls on trade unions around the world to raise their voices and strengthen international solidarity for justice, peace, human dignity, and humanitarian access to Gaza.
We remain united with HAK-İŞ and all workers and humanitarian organizations defending peace and human rights.
In solidarity,
