Solidarity of FLC CGIL with the Demonstrators in Sulaymaniyah

Federation of Knowledge Workers of the Italian General Confederation of Labour [FLC CGIL] expresses its solidarity and closeness to the teachers and journalists who have been arrested following the protests over the non-payment of salaries for public sector employees in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

09.07.2025

Here is the link to the original statement in Italian.

On June 26, 2025, demonstrators and civil society activists – including teachers and journalists – were arrested in various areas of the city of Sulaymaniyah, particularly near the Rozhawa Directorate of Education. According to the Kurdistan Teachers’ Union (KTU), “these individuals were peacefully demanding their fundamental rights: regular salaries and dignity in their profession.” In Iraq, the KTU is an affiliate of Education International, the global federation of education unions.

FLC CGIL expresses deep concern over the recent arrests of teachers and journalists, and stands in solidarity with the trade unions, teachers, and citizens who took to the streets to call for the protection of the rule of law, human rights, and trade union rights.

FLC CGIL stands with those who are committed to defending the rights of teachers and public sector workers, and continues to advocate for justice through peaceful and democratic means. Echoing the words of Iraqi trade unionists: “In difficult times like these, the support of colleagues and partners such as FLC CGIL brings strength and hope to our struggle.”

FLC CGIL’s engagement within European and international institutions aims to pursue all necessary actions to ensure respect for a democratic system of social relations and to end the persecution of activists, trade unionists, and civil society actors who are being subjected to intimidation and arrests. The struggle for democracy is a global struggle — and once again, the trade union movement will be on the front line, wherever it is needed in the world.