Workers condemn use of violence against protestors

PHNOM PENH (Cambodia Herald) - The Coalition of Cambodian Apparel Workers Democratic Unions has condemned the use of violence and threats against protestors seeking better working conditions.

In a statement, it said seven factory workers including two women reported four cases of violence and threats during the first three weeks of July. Some were seriously injured, it said.

The coalition accused one factory of using "hired gangsters and security guards to beat union activists"  attending a protest.

Ath Thon, the group's director, expressed concern about authorities ignoring the garment and textile sectors, appealing for a halt to such violence.

The coalition itself has been accused of staging "illegal and violent" strikes by the Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia.