We are ready to cross our arms": the strike protest ignites Cosmopol
“We are ready to take to the streets on October 31st”: Cosmopol workers’ discontent grows
Discontent among the employees of Cosmopol, one of the main Italian security and surveillance companies, has now reached breaking point. Together with the CGIL, the workers have called a strike for October 31, with a fundamental demand at its core: respect for the national collective labor agreement.
Simple, but ignored claims
The workers' demands are clear and reasonable, as highlighted by Luigi Ambrosone, secretary of Filcams CGIL of Avellino/Benevento. The employees are only asking for the respect of their contractual rights, essential conditions to guarantee a dignified life and a balance between work and private life. This protest is the result of years of accumulated dissatisfaction and frustration.
“Workers are at the limit now,” Ambrosone says, emphasizing that patience has run out. The complaints concern excessively long shifts, insufficient wages, and irregularities in meal vouchers.
A widespread discontent throughout Italy
The tensions are not limited to a specific area, but extend nationwide. From Calabria to Piedmont, passing through Campania, employees complain about similar conditions. In Cosenza, an emblematic case saw the intervention of the Guardia di Finanza and the police, bringing to light serious irregularities, including the failure to comply with workplace safety regulations.
Another sensitive issue is that of gangmastering, a practice that should not exist in the context of private security, but which unfortunately persists, violating the dignity of workers.
Open to dialogue, but the mobilization continues
Despite the seriousness of the situation, the company seems willing to talk to the unions. “The problems are objective and we are working with the institutions to find solutions,” say union representatives. However, the strike on October 31 remains a necessity to ensure that the demands are not ignored. “We are not discouraged,” reiterate the unionists, underlining the importance of cohesion among workers to achieve concrete results.
Testimonies from workers
The stories of Cosmopol workers paint a picture of grueling shifts and inadequate wages. “We no longer have time for our families,” complains one employee. Another adds: “We chose the CGIL to enforce the collective agreement. But in recent years the situation has only gotten worse.” In addition to the shifts, organizational problems are reported, such as the inefficiency of transportation and poor management of meal vouchers.
The October 28th meeting: a last chance for the company
A meeting with the company is scheduled for October 28, but the workers are ready to take to the streets on the 31st, if their demands are not met. The strike will take place in front of the Prefecture and the company's offices, with a large turnout.
CGIL will continue to support workers, and the strike will be a crucial moment in the battle to obtain contractual justice and decent working conditions. “If we are well, they will be well too,” concludes Ambrosone.
The Cosmopol workers' mobilization is a clear example of how the failure to protect employees' rights can undermine the fragile balance between the company and the workforce. Their demands are legitimate and the strike on October 31 could represent a turning point, not only for Cosmopol employees, but for all those in Italy who are fighting for better working conditions. The meeting on October 28 is a crucial opportunity for the company: seizing it would be the wisest choice for the good of all.
Article published on 21 October 2024 - 13:10
