Striking ZCMC workers reach agreement with management

The striking employees of Armenia’s Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine (ZCMC) on Monday agreed to return to work after reaching an agreement with the company’s management, Vahe Mkhitaryan, a member of the strike coordination council, announced.

The workers had been on strike since January 31, demanding higher wages and better working conditions. Last week, eight strike organizers were dismissed.

“We managed to reach an agreement to resolve all the issues,” Mkhitaryan stated in a Facebook live video.

He highlighted that the clarification published on the ZCMC website confirms a 20% salary increase, which will be implemented based on the principle of social justice.

"Another key point is ensuring no protest participant faces retaliation and reviewing the dismissal of the eight striking workers," said Mkhitaryan, who is among those dismissed.

He added that the ZCMC employees decided to end the strike and return to work prioritizing state interests, social partnership and a constructive approach.

Mkhitaryan also stated that the legal status of the dismissed workers will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, if necessary, challenged in court.

The ZCMC worker reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the management delivers on its promises and expressed gratitude to their supporters

Mkhitaryan also described the strike as a significant step toward in corporate culture.