The Libyan Teacher Union in Tripoli has issued a warning against using security summons as a means of pressuring union representatives. This warning comes after several union leaders and members were summoned by the Internal Security Device in Tripoli. The union stated that legitimate union demands should not be treated as a security issue. The union also emphasized that peaceful sit-ins and strikes are a right guaranteed by Libyan laws and regulations.
The union released a legal memo regarding the summons of several education inspectors, union leaders, and members of the teacher movement. The memo stated that there were concerns about pressures or threats being exerted on some union representatives to end the sit-in and resume classes. The union emphasized the need to verify the circumstances of these procedures and their legality.
The union based its stance on Article 14 of the Interim Constitutional Declaration of 2011. This article guarantees public freedoms, including freedom of opinion, expression, assembly, demonstration, and peaceful sit-in according to the law. The union also cited Law No. 3 of 2023 regarding professional unions, associations, and links.
The union referenced Law No. 65 of 2012 regarding the organization of peaceful demonstration rights. This law obliges administrative authorities to provide protection to participants. The union also cited Article 6/b, which stipulates providing necessary assistance to ensure the safety of demonstrators and practicing their right to peaceful expression.
The union emphasized that union leaders and school representatives have legal protection while practicing their legitimate tasks. They cannot be targeted or retaliated against for defending their colleagues' rights. The union rejected taking arbitrary administrative measures against union members, threatening or intimidating them, or depriving them of their job rights.
The union stated that the role of security agencies is to protect citizens, maintain public security, and implement the law. It is not to exert pressure on teachers' representatives or intervene to resolve professional and union disputes. The union stressed that any security summons or procedure must be based on clear legal grounds and within established competencies.
The union concluded its memo by emphasizing that teachers' demands relate to legitimate professional, financial, and social rights. The educational crisis will not be resolved through summons and threats but through serious dialogue, implementing commitments, and settling outstanding issues.
Key points
- The Libyan Teacher Union warns against using security summons to silence union representatives.
- The union cites Libyan laws and international agreements to support its stance.
- The union emphasizes the need for dialogue to resolve the educational crisis.
