500 Turkish miners lock themselves underground in protest against privatization

In Ankara’s Nallihan district, 500 miners employed at the Cayirhan Thermal Power Plant mining site have launched a dramatic protest against a recent privatization decision. During the morning shift, the workers descended into the mine and refused to leave, effectively locking themselves underground.

The planned evening shift workers, upon learning of the ongoing protest, chose not to enter the mine.

Union pledges support for miners

The General President of Türkiye’s Mine Workers Union, Nurettin Akcul, stated they were closely monitoring the situation and standing in solidarity with the protesting workers.

“Since the privatization decision was announced, we have been in discussions with relevant authorities. We even organized a rally in Cayirhan, but unfortunately, no positive response has been received. As a result, our colleagues from the morning shift decided to take this step by locking themselves in the mine. We will serve as their voice above ground,” Akcul declared.

Global perspective: Risks of privatization in mining

The protest underscores broader concerns about the impact of privatization and contractor-heavy practices on safety and working conditions in the global mining industry.

Emeritus Professor Michael Quinlan from UNSW Business School has highlighted the increased risks posed by cost-cutting contractor hiring practices. Speaking about findings from a comprehensive study, he noted:

Contract labor often involves ‘dirtier’ work, longer hours, and lower pay. This not only undermines worker autonomy but also escalates safety risks, contributing to a significant proportion of mining fatalities globally.

The research examined 120 studies across multiple countries, including Türkiye, revealing a clear link between contractor employment and heightened safety risks.

Call for change

As the Cayirhan miners continue their underground protest, their actions bring attention to the urgent need for reforms in mining practices—not just in Türkiye, but worldwide. Enhanced oversight and better regulatory frameworks could prevent such crises and create safer environments for workers in the mining industry.

The miners’ bold stand is not just a fight for their livelihoods but a broader call to prioritize safety and fairness in an industry often driven by cost-cutting measures.