Peru workers take to streets against Fujimori labour reforms
Key Takeaways
- CGTP led a march against proposed labour reforms in Lima.
- Unions raised concerns over job security, holidays and bonuses.
- Workers demanded Fujimori deliver the promised 1,300-sol minimum wage.
Unions marched through central Lima, warning proposed reforms could weaken job security, holidays, bonuses and other labour rights.
The General Confederation of Workers of Peru (CGTP) led a march through central Lima on Thursday against labour reforms pushed by President Keiko Fujimori's new administration, 15 days after she began her term on July 28.
Protesters marched from Plaza Dos de Mayo towards Congress, carrying banners and chanting slogans in defence of job security.
Unions argue that some measures proposed by the government could weaken labour rights and lead to more precarious working conditions.
"What is being attempted is a labour reform that cuts labour rights and creates precarious work," said Geronimo Lopez, Secretary-General of the General Confederation of Workers of Peru.
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Among the main concerns raised by unions are the protection of CTS (Compensation for Time of Service), holidays, bonuses and job security.
Gilmer Meza, Secretary-General of the Unitary Union of Education Workers of Peru, said teachers joined the demonstration as a warning to the new government.
"We teachers who are here mobilised today also support workers from different organisations, demanding respect for workers' holidays, respect for bonuses," the secretary argued.
During her inaugural address, Fujimori announced an increase in the Minimum Living Wage to 1,300 soles. However, the CGTP has questioned the increase being tied to an agreement with the business sector.
The union says employers have previously postponed updates to the minimum wage.
"Today we have come out precisely to say, 'keep your word'; issue the Supreme Decree at once ordering the wage rise to 1,300," Lopez added.
Workers at the demonstration said they would oppose any reforms they believe would roll back their labour rights.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
