Cambodia – Garment Workers Strike Receives Government Violent Response

January 17, 2014

By Padmini Arhant 

The Cambodian garment and shoe factory workers strike for minimum wage increase met with government violent crackdown resulting in peaceful protesters deaths and charges against political opposition in the country. 

The Cambodian Labor Ministry offer to raise minimum wage from $80 to $100 per month while the labor force seeking $160 monthly payment in the $5 billion industry confirms exploitation – the common practice worldwide.

Corporations and government obviously do not share profits among employees especially those at the bottom of income hierarchy.  The global poverty and economic inequality largely attributed to poor employment conditions and below normal earnings with disproportionate allocation to powerful entities in political and business enterprise.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen led government hardline approach against national work force demonstrators on this issue is counterproductive. 

The authorities could instead address high inflation along side improving job situation with fair and reasonable remuneration, health care provisions and other benefits for workers behind profitable trade boosting national revenue.

Major multinational companies and designer outlets using Cambodia and many developing nations as manufacturing base also bear responsibility in adopting policies with decent wages for factory workers and members in the service sector.

The government response to curb public rally in addition to political indictment of leaders in National Rescue Party contributes to unrest flaring instability. 

Moreover such disposition reveals government lack of commitment to economic growth evident in denying citizens request for affordable living despite enormous returns from apparel and accessories exports abroad.

International consumers effort and direct support to workers in Cambodia and elsewhere with similar experience could deliver positive outcome. 

In globalized economy, collective action urging private and public sector to comply with labor and environment laws critical to change status quo alleviating ordinary citizens plight.

Cambodian leaderships peaceful negotiations with protesters, unions and activists including political rivals could perhaps lead to resolutions conforming to better salary and income disbursements essential to narrow the gap between haves and have-nots in society. 

Wishing Cambodian citizens success in equitable system establishment facilitating mainstream access to prosperity.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

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Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Asia Pacific, Featured, International Politics | Leave a Comment