CWI urgent solidarity appeal:

Female factory workers in Russia start hunger strike

Six female workers at the 'Kholodmash' factory in Yaroslavl city, Russia, including the leader of the plant's trade union, Olga Boiko, started an "indefinite hunger strike", on 16 May.

CWI reporters, Russia

Workers began the hunger strike as part of their campaign demanding payment of several months wage arrears and to demand a plan to save the Kholodmash factory, which is now on the verge of bankruptcy.

Only weeks ago, on 27 March, the workforce occupied the Director's office in the factory and refused to release the Director until he promised to begin negotiations with them, including participation by the regional government.

The occupation ended after the regional governor, Anatolii Lisitsyn, agreed to participate in finding a solution (see previous report on socialistworld.net).

However, notwithstanding many promises, the workers' demands are still not met. At the end of April, the Regional Government (Oblduma) turned down a proposal to open a credit line for the factory. As a result, the workforce, once again, find themselves with no way out but to step up their protests.

In desperation, six workers have taken the drastic decision to go on hunger strike. On 30 May, the Arbitration Court is due to meet to decide whether to declare the factory bankrupt.

The Kholodmash workers need the energetic support of trade unionists, socialist organisations, and human rights groups. Solidarity protest actions are needed.

Please send emails, faxes or letters of protest, to: Valerii Kalinkin, Kholodmash Director