Republished from NTL

Attacks on U.S. federal employees threaten democratic institutions

The new administration has reclassified tens of thousands of public employees into a category without employment protection. This reclassification allows for immediate and arbitrary firing and applies to employees in all parts of the civil service. Furthermore, the President has tried to fire the head of the Office of Special Council, which is tasked with assisting civil servants who have been subjected to unlawful personnel treatment, as well as the heads of appeal councils for cases related to promotions.   

The new administration's attempts to gain power over the US government apparatus, without following laws and budgetary decisions from Congress, civil service regulations or established practices, are not an expression of “efficiency”, but an acquisition of illegitimate power.

In solidarity with U.S. academics and union members fighting for freedom and rights

Academia is also under attack. American universities and colleges are facing massive budget cuts unless they cease all work related to diversity, equity and inclusion. This is an attempt to dictate what researchers and teachers may and may not work with, which undermines the academic freedom and professional autonomy. Unions for university staff have seen this coming and have long since been cautioning against the developments under Trumpism.  

NTL stands in solidarity with U.S. federal workers, unions and academics in this struggle. We know that targeted attacks on trade union rights have a way of spreading, escalating and destroying society bit by bit. That's why we need to speak up. We must stand united and fight back, and we must defend the democratic principles that the trade union movement has always been a part of.  

Norwegian version: Solidaritet med USAs statsansatte og akademikere

About NTL – The Norwegian Civil Service Union

NTL (The Norwegian Civil Service Union) is one of Norway’s largest trade unions for public sector employees, with over 57,000 members. We represent workers in government administration, public enterprises, and higher education, and are committed to protecting workers' rights, securing fair wages, and improving working conditions.

Our mission is to strengthen Norway’s welfare state, promote equality, and ensure that public services are delivered efficiently and fairly. Through collective bargaining, policy advocacy, and legal support, we work to create a safe, just, and sustainable society for all.

NTL is affiliated with the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions (LO), Norway’s largest labor organization.