MONROVIA – On Thursday, January 30, 2025, a major labor crisis has erupted at Firestone Liberia as thousands of employees have walked off the job, bringing the company’s operations to a standstill. Workers, citing poor wages and harsh working conditions, have staged a protest that has effectively shut down production and disrupted key departments, including engineering, administration, and manufacturing.
Frustration has been mounting among employees who argue that the company has failed to address persistent grievances. Complaints range from low wages that barely sustain their families to hazardous work environments that expose them to serious health risks. Employees say management has repeatedly ignored their concerns, leaving them with no option but to take drastic action.
One worker, standing among the protesters, expressed outrage over years of unfulfilled promises. He stressed that their demands are long overdue, accusing Firestone of disregarding the well-being of those who have kept the company running. Calls for fair treatment have intensified, with labor representatives warning that the strike could escalate if management refuses to negotiate.
Firestone Liberia, a key player in the country’s economy for nearly a century, employs more than 8,000 workers and plays a vital role in global rubber production. Despite its economic significance, the company has frequently come under scrutiny over labor disputes. Workers argue that their compensation does not reflect the company’s success, while also raising concerns about the lack of retirement security and inadequate medical care.
The National Timber, Wood Construction and Allied Workers Union of Liberia has been vocal in condemning Firestone’s treatment of employees. General Secretary Marcus S. Blama criticized the company for failing to uphold commitments made to its workforce. He noted that many long-serving employees have been denied fair retirement benefits, while others continue to work under exploitative conditions.
Union leaders are also pushing for reforms in the company’s collective bargaining agreements, calling for greater inclusivity and improved worker protections. Despite previous negotiations with the Ministry of Labor, no significant progress has been made, fueling discontent among employees who feel abandoned by both the government and Firestone’s leadership.
