In October 2006, the IUF launched an international campaign in support of the workers at Unilever's Sewri factory in Mumbai (Bombay), India, organized in the Hindustan Lever Employees Union (HLEU). HLEU members rejected the company's proposed severance scheme and the union challenged the legality of the closure itself. Actions were organized locally and across India, and internationally by the IUF, including a submission to the UK government alleging grave violations of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.
A comprehensive settlement has now been reached and approved by the HLEU membership which resolves all issues arising from the closure. The HLEU has warmly thanked the IUF and all those who supported this long, difficult struggle by the Sewri workers and their union.