The World's Deadliest Place to Be a Trade Unionist

Trade unionists around the world continue to face threats, intimidation, and even violence simply for standing up for workers’ rights. Among all nations, Colombia has consistently ranked as the most dangerous country for trade unionists, according to annual reports by international labour organisations.

For decades, Colombia has seen numerous cases where union leaders have been harassed, threatened, or assassinated. Despite ongoing peace efforts and government assurances, the country remains plagued by violence linked to paramilitary groups, criminal gangs, and weak law enforcement. Many trade unionists are targeted because they challenge powerful corporate and political interests, especially in sectors like agriculture, mining, and transport.

The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has documented that Colombia reports the highest number of trade unionist killings year after year. In many cases, perpetrators are not brought to justice, creating a culture of impunity.

Beyond Colombia, other countries such as the Philippines, Bangladesh, and Guatemala also show worrying trends of anti-union violence, arrests, and legal restrictions on union activity.

The situation in these regions raises major concerns about workers’ safety and freedom of association. Trade unions are essential in securing fair wages, safe workplaces, and social justice. When union leaders are silenced through violence or fear, workers across entire industries suffer.

Global pressure, human rights advocacy, and stronger enforcement of labour protections are urgently needed to make trade unionism safe and respected everywhere. Until then, the struggle for workers’ rights continues—often at great personal cost.