Bahrain Mirror: Secretary General of the General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions (GFBTU) Hassan Halwachi confirmed that the Labor Day procession of this year (2017) continues to be banned. The procession takes place on the occasion of International Labor Day marking May 1 of each year.

In a press statement, Halwachi noted that while the GFBTU respects the decision issued by the Ministry of Interior as a body keen to maintain the country's security, it also believed that "throughout the history of the unions' work, there was no remark against us, especially in the commemoration of Labor Day procession. There was always strict adherence to the drawn route, time, and cleanliness as well."

"If there are circumstances that might affect the security of the country, then we understand the decision, and when we were informed of the decision preventing the procession, we expressed respect. However, it is important to say that depriving workers from organizing the procession had negative effects not only on the unions and labor movement, but also on the country's economy,' the GFBTU Secretary General added.

"Allowing the procession is a reflection to the state of security stability, and in fact, it represents a custom of the trade union and culture, through which workers express their opinions and stances. It could also include expressing gratitude to the government concerning some decisions. It could also be a good opportunity to talk about labor and union files," he further added.

Arabic Version