Unionists show solidarity with Ansell workers in Sri Lanka, Malaysia

November 16, 2022
Issue 
Protesting Ansell's anti-union policies. Photo: Australia Asia Worker Links

Union and solidarity activists protested on November 10 outside the annual general meeting of Ansell because of its anti-union policies.

Ansell, an Australian-based transnational corporation that makes rubber gloves and other personal protective equipment, has sacked unionists in its Sri Lankan factory and refuses to recognise their union.

Ansell contracts some its production to factories in Malaysia that employ migrant workers who had to pay fees to get jobs.

These workers have their passports taken by the employer. This is bonded labour, also known as modern slavery.

Sri Lankan and Malaysian plantation workers who produce the rubber are forced to endure unsafe conditions and very low wages.

Manrico Moro, speaking on behalf of Australia-Asia Worker Links, told the rally that protests around the world have had an impact. For example, Ansell has repaid some money owed to bonded labourers.

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