The Progressieve Vakcentrale C-47 has expressed concern about the increasing tensions surrounding the board elections at OWOS. The trade union federation is responding to the incident in which the union building on Drambrandersgracht was reportedly shot at.
C-47 stresses that it does not wish to interfere in the election contest and is not taking sides with any candidate or participating list. OWOS is not affiliated with the trade union federation.
According to C-47, workers must be able to freely and democratically determine who represents them. According to the organisation, that right must be exercised without pressure, threats or intimidation.
Link not yet established
It is not yet clear whether the shooting is related to the elections. C-47 therefore says it does not wish to prejudge the outcome of the investigation and is making no statements about the possible motive or those responsible.
However, the trade union federation considers it worrying that the incident took place shortly before the elections, while there had already been tensions and discussions surrounding the vote.
C-47 calls on the judicial authorities to investigate the incident swiftly, independently and carefully. This should clarify what occurred and prevent speculation within society.
Call for a calm election process
The trade union federation appeals to all parties involved to remain calm and demonstrate responsibility. According to C-47, the elections must proceed in an orderly, peaceful and democratic manner.
“Differences in views and opinions within a democratic trade union movement should be fought out with arguments, persuasion and respect for the free choice of workers, and not through intimidation or violence,” C-47 states.
The organisation stresses that no worker may be threatened, intimidated or pressured because of his or her choice. C-47 continues to advocate for a trade union environment in which workers can cast their vote freely, independently and without fear.
