Karachi (Press Release) International Trade Union Body voices deep concern about the humanitarian implications of the recent military clash between India and Pakistan.
In a statement the Regional Committee of The International Union of Food Workers (IUF) Asia/Pacific expresses grave concern that the recent military conflict between India and Pakistan posed a serious threat to civilian lives and the livelihoods of working people in both countries.
The statement also says, while we welcome the ceasefire, we recognize that the risk of further outbreaks of conflict is high.
Given that both countries have a combined arsenal of nearly 400 nuclear missiles of varying types, our affiliates have expressed concern regarding the risk of the use of nuclear weapons – whether by accident or design.
If this were to happen it could have a devastating impact in the region and globally. Not only would this result in the loss of human lives on an enormous scale, but the release of radiation and soot into the atmosphere would have a long-term impact on human and animal health, food crops and food security in the region.
In line with the 28th IUF Congress resolution No.23 calling for peace and nuclear disarmament and noting the forthcoming 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, it is vital that trade unions and civil society organizations unite in their call for peace.
As more and more of the world drifts towards extreme nationalism – we must reaffirm the internationalism of our trade unions, uphold international solidarity and ensure peace.
We must also ensure that our members understand that for workers everywhere: economic and social justice needs peace, and peace needs economic and social justice.
