On 20 December a protest action against the persecution of trade union activists and leaders of democratic trade unions of Belarus will be held near the Belarusian embassy in Berlin. The action is organized by the Association «Salidarnast» and the Belarusians in Germany
On this day, 20 December, Minsk court will start hearing the case against the leaders of the Association of Trade Unions «Belarusian Congress of Democratic Trade Unions» (BKDP). On the trial the chairman of the Belarusian Congress of Democratic Trade Unions Aliaksandr Yarashuk, the deputy chairman Siarhei Antusevich and the accountant of the trade union association Iryna But-Husaim are tried.
Depending on their role each is charged under two criminal articles: part 1 of article 342 (active participation in the actions that grossly violate public order) and part 3 of article 361 (call for restrictive measures (sanctions), other actions aimed at inflicting damage to the national security)
Judge Valiantsina Ziankevich will hear the case.
At the moment 18 trade union activists are under investigation. 17 activists have already been sentenced, while some have managed to serve their sentences and go free.
Undoubtedly, this process is of a political nature and is connected with the persecution of trade union activists. The largest trade union association, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), has called on its organisations to hold solidarity actions on this day.
On this day, the Association «Salidarnast» and Belarusians in Germany picket the Belarusian embassy in Berlin. The main demand of the protesters is the release of political prisoners and restoration of the activity of independent trade unions, liquidated by the Supreme Court. The action will take place on 20 December at 13:00 at Am Treptower Park 32, 12435 Berlin.