The NTEU National Executive passed the folloing motion as a statement of support for the action taken by the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (HKCTU):
The National Executive of the NTEU condemns the ongoing violations of basic human rights during the protests occurring in Hong Kong.
NTEU stands in solidarity with our comrades of the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (HKCTU) and supports their demands for the Hong Kong Government to uphold freedom of assembly and free speech, for the release of arrested protesters, and an independent inquiry into human rights abuses by police.
NTEU condemns violence and intimidation and stands with those seeking to protect freedom of expression and freedom of assembly whether that be in Hong Kong or on campuses. Critical debate on campuses and in the broader community is a vital component of civil society.
NTEU National Executive is concerned at the influence that is being exerted on Australian campuses by external funders including government, non-government, and commercial entities, whether foreign or domestic. As a vital component of a free and open society Universities must jealously guard their institutional independence and not compromise the core principles of institutional autonomy and academic and intellectual freedom.
Motion passed by National Executive 17 August 2019
To see the HKCTU’s statement of support for the 5th August strike in Hong Kong, and their list of 5 demands see HERE
Image: By Wpcpey – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=81165268
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