VOICED : US trade deal loss hits Swaziland textile workers

Swaziland's textile industry, once thriving due to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), faces severe challenges after being excluded from a U.S. trade deal due to poor human rights practices. This has led to significant job losses, with unions and the government disputing the figures. Workers' rights to organize and strike have been met with government resistance, including police intervention. Individuals like Maria Matt Cebula struggle to find employment due to their union affiliations. The Swazi government is under pressure to reform, facing potential trade issues with the European Union if changes are not made.

What was the primary reason for Swaziland's removal from the U.S. trade deal?

• Economic instability

• Shoddy human rights record

• High unemployment rate

• Lack of exports

How many textile workers were reported to have lost their jobs according to unions?

• 5000

• 1000

• 3000

• 1800

What action did the government take when workers went on strike?

• Increased wages

• Sent police to disperse them

• Negotiated with workers

• Closed the factories

What challenge did Maria Matt Cebula face after being laid off?

• Returning to school

• Starting her own business

• Relocating to another country

• Finding a new job due to her union history

What warning did the European Union give to Swaziland?

• Increase exports or face sanctions

• Adopt new economic policies

• Improve human rights or face trade issues

• Reduce unemployment or lose aid