The strike at Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine (ZCMC) has come to an end. Employees have accepted the proposal regarding the equalization of salaries in the main production units, according to Araik Margaryan, Head of ZCMC’s Public Relations Department, in her interview to NEWS.am.
Meanwhile, Vahe Mkhitaryan, a member of the strike coordinating council - who, along with seven other employees, was dismissed by ZCMC - stated in a live broadcast: "We have decided to resume ZCMC’s work schedule. The legality of our colleagues’ dismissal orders will be reviewed through hierarchical procedures and, if necessary, in court."
Reminder: on January 31 of this year, hundreds of employees of Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine began a protest, demanding salary increases and improvements in working conditions. The company and its trade union characterized the employees' actions as "illegal activities."
On February 10, ZCMC issued an official statement, promising salary and working condition changes within specified timeframes.
According to the company’s statement, as part of the ongoing process, the total salary fund will increase by an average of 20%. Additionally, on February 17, ZCMC’s administration will announce an open competition to select a new insurance provider that will offer quality services in line with employees’ demands.
The company also guarantees that modern, high-efficiency ventilation and aspiration systems will be installed in the main production units no later than the end of 2025.
To familiarize themselves with the labor rights issues raised by ZCMC employees, the representatives of Human Rights Defender’s Office traveled to Syunik Region.
"During the meetings, the employees of Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine raised, among other issues, concerns related to salary revisions, medical insurance, and working conditions, particularly excessive noise, dust, and vibrations in production areas, as well as hygiene standards.
The representatives of the Human Rights Defender also met with residents of buildings adjacent to the combine. The residents noted that a filtration station is currently being constructed at ZCMC, where waste from the company’s production facilities will be processed.
According to the residents, the station is being built in close proximity to residential buildings and may have a negative impact on the environment and human health."
February 11, 2025 at 12:19