The ACTU reiterates the ICFTU’s call to express further concerns regarding the safety of other trade union leaders in Cambodia.

10 March 2004

His Excellency Mr. Hor Nambora
Ambassador
Royal Embassy of Cambodia
5 Canterbury Crescent
Deakin ACT 2600
Fax : (02) 6273 1053

Dear Mr Ambassador,

Further to the Australian Council of Trade Unions’ (ACTU) letter to you dated 27 January 2004 regarding the assassination of Chea Vichea, we are very concerned about the safety of other trade union leaders in Cambodia and seek your urgent intervention to protect them.

The ACTU has learned that several trade union leaders have received threats, including Rong Chhun, President of the Cambodian Independent Teachers Association (CITA) and FTUWKC General Secretary Sum Son Neang who has fled to Australia in fear of his safety.

The ACTU reiterates the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions’ (ICFTU) call for Cambodian authorities to provide safety guarantees for all trade union activists and human rights defenders. The ACTU also calls on the Cambodian authorities to open an impartial inquiry into Vichea’s death.

Yours sincerely,

Sharan Burrow
President

Cc:
ICFTU
ICFTU-APRO
Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA
IEU National Office
AEU Federal Office