Workers for the largest online retailer in the world are planning to go on strike during the busy holiday shopping season. Employees of Amazon are set to protest in 20 countries, including the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Brazil, during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The strike, called the “Make Amazon Pay days of resistance,” is organized by UNI Global Union and Progressive International, with demands for increased wages and the right to unionize. The protest may cause delays in holiday deliveries, according to economy experts. Demonstrators in various countries will participate, with thousands of workers in Germany planning to join, as well as protests in France, Bangladesh, and elsewhere. This marks the fifth annual Make Amazon Pay demonstration, targeting Amazon’s practices and calling for fair treatment of workers. Amazon has defended its treatment of employees, stating that it offers competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities. The company has made a $2.2 billion investment in increasing pay for employees in the U.S., with benefits such as health insurance, a 401(k) plan, and paid leave. Workers’ rights have been a point of contention, with efforts to unionize at Amazon facilities facing challenges. The rise in inflation post-pandemic is seen as a driver for collective action, with experts pointing to a resurgence in union activity. The protest aims to hold Amazon accountable and prioritize human dignity over corporate profit.
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