(12 December 2013) EPSU, the European Federation of Public Service Unions, is concerned about the developments in the Ukraine. Earlier police violence against demonstrators and new images of police seeking to remove demonstrators from the main square despite statements of the authorities not to use violence, are reasons for concern.
We urge the authorities to refrain from any police or other violence against the peaceful demonstrators which include many students and workers. Demonstrations, strikes and other forms of non-violent protests are part of the debate and dialogue in democratic societies. Protestors are defending that choices for the future have to be made in an open and transparent manner respecting European values such as respect for human rights, democracy, equality, solidarity and freedom. Workers and citizens of the Ukraine also demand decent pay and conditions and high social standards.
We support the call of the Ukrainian trade unions for a national roundtable in which all interested parties in society can take part, including the trade unions. The interests of workers should be taken into account as the economic situation is deteriorating and when considering options for the future, including or not further integration with the EU. Many workers are unemployed, others do not receive their wages on time and precarious work is on the rise.
EPSU is concerned that the current view of the European Commission and EU governments regarding trade with the Ukraine is based on a concept of cheap labour competitiveness and opening of markets rather than improving the industrial base and the renewal of industry and public services.
We will work with our affiliates in the Ukraine to assist in the understanding of the implications of closer links with the European Union, the role of trade unions in such processes. If the Ukrainian authorities were to decide to sign the Deep and Comprehensive Trade Agreement with the EU, we expect much more from the EU institutions to assist the country, also financially to develop its public services and industrial base.
- our article translated in Ukrainian
- Statement of the Ukrainian Federation of Trade Unions
- update on the situation in Ukraine and the position of the trade unions
Ukrainian unions condemns closure of union offices
(16 December 2013) The trade union offices have been used by protestors as a sort of headquarters and lodging. The government (the independence of the legal system can be questioned) has now ordered the removal of the protestors and at the same time thrown out the unions. For a statement of protest :
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