Mining workers in Turkey have begun a long march to the capital, demanding unpaid wages and compensation in a dispute that highlights deepening attacks on workers’ rights.
Workers employed by Doruk Madencilik set off on foot towards Ankara after gathering outside their workplace ahead of the protest. Members of the Independent Mine Workers’ Union (Bağımsız Maden-İş) said that they have been denied pay and entitlements for years and are determined to continue their action until justice is delivered.
After spending the night outside the mining site, the group began their march in the early hours, travelling from the Eskişehir region towards Ankara.
The worker’s action is a fight for “bread and dignity”, the workers issued a direct appeal for solidarity: “Hear our voices and grow solidarity. This is a struggle for bread, a struggle for honour. Our road leads to Ankara. There is no return without our rights.”
Union leader Gökay Çakır, said “This is not only the struggle of Doruk Madencilik workers. It is a struggle for all of us. For the right to earn a living. We call on everyone to show solidarity.”
Workers also pointed to the treatment of labour organisers linked to the dispute. They highlighted that trade union organiser Başaran Aksu had been detained after speaking out, alongside mining union expert Doğukan Akan.
According to news sources in Turkey, workers described the conditions faced by the workforce in stark terms, arguing that while companies and holding groups profit from their labour, workers themselves are left without basic entitlements. “We are not doing anything wrong. We are asking for our bread,” the worker said. “If that is a crime, then let them come for us as well. We are not afraid.”
The march continues towards Ankara, with workers vowing to maintain their protest until their unpaid wages and compensation are paid! HWe urge all trade un
