Turkey: Miners in danger | European Journal
- 10 years ago
A mining accident in the town of Soma cost the lives of several hundred men in May. It was the latest in a long line of mining-related disasters in Turkey. Poor safety standards have left the miners angry and frustrated with the government.
Coal mining is an important part of Turkey's economy. Conditions for workers have worsened since the government sold many of its state-owned mines around 15 years ago. Some mines are illegal, with accidents frequently covered up. The miners work for low wages, without protective clothing or emergency measures. A few weeks ago Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan - currently on the campaign trail for the presidency - promised to find a solution concerning safety standards. For more go to http://www.dw.de/program/european-journal/s-3065-9798
Coal mining is an important part of Turkey's economy. Conditions for workers have worsened since the government sold many of its state-owned mines around 15 years ago. Some mines are illegal, with accidents frequently covered up. The miners work for low wages, without protective clothing or emergency measures. A few weeks ago Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan - currently on the campaign trail for the presidency - promised to find a solution concerning safety standards. For more go to http://www.dw.de/program/european-journal/s-3065-9798