Iran's Sugar Union Leaders Behind Bars - Release Them Now! Five leaders of Iran's independent sugarworkers union are in prison, serving sentences for their trade union activity as of November 14. In a drive to destroy the independent union established last year by workers at the giant Haft Tapeh plantation/refining sugar complex in southern Iran, a court on October 12 sentenced the 5 union leaders to immediate prison terms on charges of 'endangering national security' stemming from October 2007. The older charges were put to use when courts overturned similar 2008 convictions earlier this year. Haft Tapeh workers for many years have repeatedly had to resort to strikes and other actions to claim huge wage arrears and protest deteriorating working conditions. The regime is clearly determined to crush the union by putting its entire leadership behind bars. International solidarity is urgently needed - please use the form below to send a message to the Iranian authorities demanding immediate and unconditional freedom for these courageous trade unionists. Please note that some messages may bounce back - do not be discouraged! Server overload is a common condition in Iran - some messages will get through, making the point that the persecuted trade unionists enjoy international support. English / To participate in other IUF campaigns, please click here. Date updated : 16-Nov-2009 Language : en Status: closed