UNISONActive is an unofficial blog produced by UNISON activists for UNISON activists. Bringing news, briefings and events from a progressive left perspective.

Friday 21 September 2012

Millions resist neo-liberalism in India

Over 50 million people are estimated to be taking part in protests all over India against the Government plans to open up the economy to multi national companies such as Wal Mart:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-19658146
The strikes and protests called by the trade unions, the opposition party and the Communist Parties are in opposition to the government`s policy of allowing Global Retail firms to buy up to 51% of existing retail firms, essentially allowing them to take over the sector.

This is part of a wider neo liberal agenda to lay out the booming Indian economy for multi nationals who see India as an alternative to slumped markets in North America and Europe.

UNI the global union has also spelt out some of the precise dangers for workers in India if companies like Wal Mart get the access they want
http://www.uniglobalunion.org/Apps/uni.nsf/pages/homepageEn?Opendocument&exURL=http://www.uniglobalunion.org/Apps/UNINews.nsf/vwLkpByIdHome/B43C2A43E87012EFC1257A7D004B3C81?OpenDocument