Are Trade Unions digging their own graves?

In the wake of the railway strike, which tragically claimed two lives and inconvenienced thousands of passengers and the public, it is time to reflect on the role of trade unions in our country. The ongoing strike, orchestrated by railway trade unions, has brought to the forefront an issue that has plagued Sri Lanka for years – the contentious relationship between trade unions, the government and the public. This situation raises a crucial question: Are trade unions, with their high-handed actions and political agendas, digging their own graves?
The Sri Lanka Railways, a vital part of our country’s infrastructure, has long been a subject of debate regarding its management and operations. Calls for its privatization have echoed for years, and the recent strike further highlights the need for reform within the Railway Department. While trade unions have a legitimate role in safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers, their actions should not compromise the well-being of the broader public.

The recent strike has exposed the outdated nature of the Railway Department, which has failed to adapt to the modern needs of the country and its citizens. The lack of investment, technological advancements, and efficient management has hindered the development of this crucial transportation system.
The issue at hand is not confined to the railway sector alone. Trade union actions in various other sectors have also come under heavy criticism over the years. The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), teachers unions, Electricity Board engineers and employees, and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation employees have all resorted to strikes that disrupt the daily lives of ordinary citizens. This trend is concerning as it erodes public opinion on trade unions and their relevance.
Some have gone so far as to term these trade unions as a “trade union mafia.” While such labels may be overly dramatic, it is evident that certain union leaders have questionable conduct and lifestyles. This further tarnishes the image of trade unions and makes it difficult for the public to sympathize with their causes.
It is important to acknowledge that the real grievances of workers in any sector should be addressed through discussion and proper procedures, rather than resorting to high-handed actions that hold the public hostage. The responsibility for finding solutions lies not only with the unions but also with those in power. It is imperative for both sides to engage in constructive dialogue and compromise for the greater good of the nation.

The situation we find ourselves in today is reminiscent of the era of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in Britain in the 1980s . The constant disruptions caused by trade union actions exhausted the public, and Prime Minister Thatcher seized the opportunity to crush the trade unions and initiate comprehensive reforms in the public sector, including privatization. While Sri Lanka may not be on the same path as Britain, the public’s patience with frequent strikes is wearing thin.
In response to the recent railway strike, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has declared railway services as an essential service. This decision reflects the urgent need to maintain law, peace, and public security in the country. However, it is crucial to strike a balance between workers’ rights and the broader interests of the public.
While the government’s actions may seem harsh, they are driven by the need to ensure that the country does not fall into chaos due to “trade union terrorism” as Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardena has termed it. It is a stark reminder that Sri Lanka’s economic stability and development hinge on the ability to provide uninterrupted public services.
At least 20 scheduled train services were cancelled on Monday, resulting in overcrowded trains leading to dangerous situations, and tragic incidents like the death of a 20-year-old who fell from a train roof. These incidents highlight the dire consequences of trade union actions when they escalate to the point of endangering lives.

The ongoing railway strike and its consequences are a stark reminder that trade unions must adapt to the evolving needs of our nation and its people. High-handed actions, political agendas, and strikes that disrupt public life only serve to erode public support for these organizations. It is crucial for both trade unions and the government to find common ground through dialogue and compromise to ensure the welfare of workers without compromising the well-being of the broader public. If trade unions do not evolve and consider the greater good, they risk digging their own graves and undermining their relevance in the present Sri Lankan society.