Dear Compatriots,
Workers and Toilers of Kurdistan,
On behalf of the Central Cooperation Centre of Iranian Kurdistan Parties, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all workers in Kurdistan, Iran, and around the world. We support your aspirations and stand in solidarity with your legitimate rights.
This year marks the 166th anniversary since the workers’ protests in the United States in 1856, which laid the foundation for May 1st as International Workers’ Day. Since then, workers worldwide have continued to strive for their rights. In some countries, they have achieved certain rights through persistent efforts, while in many others, they still face oppression and injustice.
In many countries, May 1st is recognized as an official holiday. Workers, along with supportive parties and organizations, hold demonstrations to advocate for workers’ rights. Demands such as an eight-hour workday, increased wages, and workplace safety remain central themes echoed annually.
Over time, while workers globally have demanded their rights, only in some countries have these rights been realized. In others, workers continue to face challenges, and their rights remain unfulfilled.
In Iran, under the rule of the Islamic Republic, although May 1st is legally designated as Workers’ Day, it is not officially recognized or celebrated by the government. Not only are workers’ rights disregarded, but unemployment rates rise annually. Workers seeking their rights are often imprisoned, tortured, and oppressed.
Due to the Islamic Republic’s flawed policies, international isolation, and imposed sanctions, unemployment increases daily. The resulting economic hardship, inflation, and scarcity of basic necessities have become significant challenges for workers.
In Eastern Kurdistan (Kurdish: ڕۆژھەڵاتی کوردستان), both the Pahlavi and Islamic regimes have neglected the region. Instead of investing in economic development, they have established military bases and security institutions. Consequently, people are compelled to migrate to other Iranian cities or neighboring countries to earn a living. The prevalence of “Kolbari” (cross-border portering) in Eastern Kurdistan highlights the desperation and lack of employment opportunities under a dictatorial regime that has stripped citizens of their rights.
In Iran, inequality and injustice are widespread, subjecting the general populace, especially workers, to a harsh and challenging life. Unemployment and corruption have reached levels where hope for improvement is scarce. The only path to liberation from this oppression is through collective action, protests, and the overthrow of the reactionary and anti-people regime of the Islamic Republic.
On this day, the people of Iran must support the demands of workers, take to the streets, and express their dissatisfaction with the government and the dire situation. They should no longer accept the ongoing oppression and injustice.
The Central Cooperation Centre of Iranian Kurdistan Parties, comprising several revolutionary parties that have long struggled for the establishment of a democratic system, national rights, and the elimination of ethnic oppression, has always supported workers’ rights. We will continue to utilize our capabilities to advocate for a system where everyone’s rights are protected, and oppression and inequality are eradicated.
Central Cooperation Centre of Iranian Kurdistan Parties
April 30, 2022