Miner Beqir Durici has won a lawsuit for unfair dismissal against Albchrome mining company, owned by Albanian businessman Saimir Mane.
Beqir and two other miners including Elton Debreshi claimed that Albchrome fired them illegally for creating a union, the United Miners Syndicate of Bulqize, in 2019. This is the first case that has been won regarding the matter. While the victory was awarded in the court of the first instance, the association backing the miners said they are ready to take it as far as the constitutional court and international courts.
As well as firing the miners, it’s alleged the company exerted pressure on them and others, as well as the courts during the process.
The SMBB thanked their lawyer Erjola Lami and all others that have supported them.
Earlier this month, the International Trade Union Confederation highlighted Abchrome as one of the worst companies for violating the rights of workers. It noted that the mentioned companies “violated workers’ rights, are linked to a violation of workers’ rights or failed to use their leverage to address workers’ rights violations.”
Albchrome mines have also been the location of many injuries and several deaths in recent years. Yet, to date, the company has not assumed responsibility for any of them, instead often placing the blame on the miner.
