EPSU solidarity with campaign against Labour Code

(30 June 2016) Young workers and trade unions are protesting against the changes in the Lithuanian Labour Code. The government introduced these changes to weaken the postion of trade unions. The changes also impact negatively on workers’ protection. Workers can be more easily dismissed. And it will become cheaper for employers to do so. They can be asked to work longer as limits to overtime will be relaxed.  The end result is that workers will be less protected while the employers reap the gains of more flexible work.  Youth movements and trade unions have gathered on the capital city Vilnus‘ main Kudirka Square. They stage a 24 hour protest that is gaining much support especially also from young people. They will face the prospect of more precarious jobs. The unions’ campaign is called “ No Slavery at Work”. The unions and other have asked the President of the country not to sign. The law is out of balance.

The constituency of North East Europe and EPSU have protested before against these changes that make the working life of young and older people more precarious.  We see the labour market reforms as being similar as those proposed in other countries like Hungary and Greece.  They do not contribute to finding a solution. There is further no evidence that they contribute to kind of improved economic performance claimed by the Lithuanian government. In fact, by creating much more precarious employment conditions they will undermine the economic recovery.

For the EPSU letter

  • EPSU solidarity letter Lithuanian labour law protest on tree in Kidrika Square, Vilnus 3062016
  • EPSU solidarity letter Lithuanian labour law protest being read out in Kidrika Square, Vilnus 30/6/2016
Lithuania