Serbian Free Trade Unions withdraw from negotiations over "Koštana" workers' back pay

The Association of Free Trade Unions of Serbia (SSSS) announced its withdrawal from negotiations with the Serbian government concerning the payment of outstanding wages to workers of the former "Koštana" footwear factory in Vranje. This decision comes after a formal written request from Dola Stamenković, the president of the Initiative Committee of "Koštana" workers.

Stamenković's request, addressed to SSSS President Nebojša Aleksić, asked the association not to participate in worker gatherings related to the factory. In response, the SSSS stated that it respects this request and, in accordance with it, will no longer accept responsibility for the course or outcome of the negotiations regarding the back pay for "Koštana" workers.

The SSSS highlighted its role in initiating and conducting negotiations with relevant state bodies, including direct contact with ministers and the president. The association claimed that these efforts were instrumental in securing the payment of outstanding claims for "Koštana" workers, accumulated over a period of 26 years.

An incident occurred at a protest gathering of workers in Vranje on June 6, where, according to the Jug press portal, SSSS President for Vranje, Isidor Stefanović, clashed with Aleksić. Police intervened to prevent escalation. Dola Stamenković's message to Aleksić indicated that workers had requested he cease attending their meetings.