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24 April, 2026Serious concerns have emerged regarding respect for freedom of association and collective bargaining rights at Schindler Türkeli Elevator Industry Inc. in Türkiye, in the context of an ongoing union organizing process and collective bargaining negotiations.
According to reports from the trade union Türk Metal, several workers who played an active role in organizing have been dismissed in recent months, including experienced employees with long service. These dismissals have reportedly been justified on the grounds of downsizing, despite indications that recruitment has continued at the same time.
There are also allegations that workers have been subjected to pressure and intimidation aimed at discouraging union membership. Reports suggest that workers have been warned of possible negative consequences should they maintain their union affiliation.
These developments are of particular concern given that collective bargaining negotiations began in February 2026. A stable environment based on trust and good faith is essential to ensure that negotiations can proceed meaningfully and that workers are able to exercise their rights without fear.
International standards and corporate responsibilityare violated
If confirmed, such practices would be inconsistent with internationally recognized standards on freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, including those set out in International Labour Organization Conventions 87 and 98.
They would also raise concerns under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, which set out the responsibility of companies to respect fundamental labour rights and prevent adverse impacts in their operations.
Schindler has made public commitments in this area through its Code of Conduct, Human Rights Policy and participation in the UN Global Compact. The company has also identified freedom of association and collective bargaining as salient human rights risks in its own reporting, making the reported situation particularly concerning.
Unionsdemand action
In response to these developments, IndustriALL Global Union and industriAll European Trade Union have written to Schindler, calling on the company to ensure full respect for trade union rights at its operations in Türkiye and to guarantee that collective bargaining can take place in a constructive and good faith environment.
“A stable environment based on good faith is essential for meaningful negotiations. Any actions that undermine workers’ ability to freely organize and bargain collectively risk damaging not only the process, but the long-term sustainability of industrial relations,”
said Atle Høie, IndustriALL Global Union general secretary.
“The situation described raises serious concerns about the implementation of the company’s own commitments. Companies must ensure that their operations fully respect workers rights, collective bargaining rights and the right to organise. Any form of pressure or intimidation is an attack on trade union rights and we stand firmly against this,”
said Judith Kirton-Darling, industriAll European Trade Union general secretary.
The unions have requested clarification from the company on the situation and the measures being taken to ensure respect for workers’ rights. They have also reiterated their willingness to engage constructively with Schindler at all levels.