NUJ stands in solidarity with BBC Cairo journalists
The union has sent a message of support to journalists in dispute with the broadcaster over pay.
Journalists at BBC Cairo commenced 10 day strike action from 21 August over an ongoing dispute over pay. The Egyptian pound’s devaluation has had a significant impact on salaries and staff are urging negotiations include a pay package offered by the BBC, that settles the dispute.
Industrial action follows three day strike action in July, and a one-day strike in June.
Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said:
“Journalists across the NUJ in the UK and Ireland – including those working at the BBC - stand in solidarity with colleagues working in the BBC’s Cairo bureau who are taking strike action in protest at the impact that spiralling inflation is having on their wages. The NUJ has urged and continues to call on the BBC to step up its negotiations and to find a sensible solution to this damaging dispute. Quality journalism cannot exist in conditions of poverty and insecurity, and the challenges Egyptian colleagues in reporting on news and events across their country for the BBC are manifold without having the additional worry about making ends meet.”
Anthony Bellanger, IFJ general secretary, said:
“Journalists in Egypt are poorly paid, and suffer challenging conditions. Turmoil in the economy has exacerbated their hardships. Journalists the world over offer support to their colleagues in Cairo, and call on BBC managers to return to the bargaining table with an offer that rewards their talented and dedicated staff as they deserve.”