Pensioners on the 30th Week of Protests: Our Struggle Will Continue Until We Get Our Rights

Members of the All Pensioners' Union gathered in Konak, İzmir, for the 30th consecutive week to protest and demand their rights. The demonstration highlighted the economic hardships faced by pensioners and workers, criticizing low wages, harsh working conditions, precarious employment, and unfair tax policies.

Semra Süren, spokesperson for the All Pensioners' Union İzmir Branches Platform, read a statement accusing capital-friendly policies of worsening living conditions. "Capital-friendly policies implemented to increase profit margins exploit workers through low wages," Süren stated. "Thus, the tax burden falls on the shoulders of workers, pensioners, and wage earners."

The union specifically criticized the method of calculating pension increases based on a 'root salary,' arguing it leads to income loss for retirees. "The application of raises to pension salaries based on the root salary is a clear example of stealing pensioners' income," Süren asserted. The group also voiced opposition to rising defense expenditures, claiming that available resources are being allocated to war efforts instead of supporting pensioners and workers.

Süren pointed out that the average working week in Turkey has reached 42.4 hours, the minimum wage is 28,075 lira, and the food expenses for a family of four have risen to 36,840 lira, underscoring the economic strain on workers and retirees. The union vowed to continue their protests until their demands are met, stating, "We will not abandon these actions until we receive our rights. This system will change. Long live our organized struggle."

Additionally, the All Pensioners' Union expressed solidarity with miners from Doruk Madencilik and Eti Gümüş who have been protesting in Ankara for days over unpaid wages, severance pay, and benefits. The union called for the full payment of these dues and the implementation of a previously agreed-upon payment protocol, viewing the miners' struggle as part of their own fight against the devaluation of labor.