Workers' Liberty

Argentina’s movement of occupied factories is an inspiration in the fight against neoliberalism, and an important symbol that another world is possible, necessary and emerging.

One of the jewels of this movement is the worker-controlled ceramic tile factory of Zanon in Neuquen.

Under worker control since 2002, the factory has increased employment 50% in the last year from 300 to 450 workers. The Zanon workers have managed this democratically, with decisions made in open assemblies.

The Zanon workers have also built deep popular support in the province of Neuquen, and have shown their commitment to their community in many ways, most recently by building a community health centre next to the factory.

Yet the workers face the constant threat of eviction.

Supporters of the Zanon workers have organised a petition, demanding the following points:

1. Remove any threat of eviction from the factory, both now and in the future.

2. Grant legal recognition to the Zanon workers’ co-operative, FaSinPat, and acknowledge the important social and economic contribution they have made to their community over the past three years.

3. Pass a permanent and definitive law of expropriation on behalf of the workers of Zanon, so they can stop wasting energy in political and legal battles, and devote all their efforts to creating many more jobs, helping to build hospitals, schools, and housing in the public interest, and spreading the model of economic democracy, so desperately needed in Neuquen and around the world.

To sign the petition, click here