We are pleased to share the news that Sithar Chhim, President of the Labor Rights Supported Union (LRSU), representing workers at NagaWorld casino in Cambodia, has been released from prison. Sithar was detained in November 2022 after returning to Cambodia from the ITUC World Congress in Melbourne.
Sithar has been a committed union leader, advocating for NagaWorld casino workers since she joined the company in 2007. She bravely led the massive ongoing strike, which began in December 2021, following the unjust mass layoffs of 1,329 casino workers.
The ACTU and global unions have been campaigning tirelessly for her release and for all charges against LRSU leaders to be dropped.
IUF, the global union for hotel workers, General Secretary Sue Longley praised Sithar, stating, “Sister Sithar’s courage and strength have been an inspiration to the whole IUF, and we celebrate her release with all the members of LRSU, her family, and friends.”
We stand in solidarity with Sithar Chhim, LRSU, and all workers fighting for justice.
Union leader Chhim Sithar being arrested on 4 January, 2022
Australian Unionists’ Commitment to NagaWorld Workers
The relationship between Australian and Cambodian unionists is strong. Since the beginning of the strikes and subsequent repression, Australian unionists, in collaboration with the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and the global union for hotels, have shown unwavering solidarity with NagaWorld workers.
At the time of Sithar’s sentencing, ACTU President Michele O’Neil declared, “We stand in solidarity with Chhim Sithar and the LRSU and call on the Cambodian government to release her immediately, stop persecuting trade unionists, and respect workers’ rights to freedom of association.”
The union movement in Australia organized rallies, forums, and petitions and garnered support from parliamentarians to advocate for her release.
Clarinda MP Meng Heang Tak, who attended a Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA forum, raised the plight of NagaWorld workers in Victoria’s Parliament. He told parliamentarians, “I join with other international voices condemning the actions of the company and the Cambodian government. I echo calls to the Australian Foreign Minister to maintain close engagement on this issue and to raise the arrest and charges at the highest levels of government.”
The release of Sithar Chhim is a positive step. The international trade union movement remains committed to supporting NagaWorld workers and advocating for justice.