Belarusian trade unions appealed to Brazil for support in issues of freedom of association

On December 05, 2024, in Brasilia, a Belarusian union leader had a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Brazilian Ministry of Labour and Employment with the request to support the decisions of the International labour Organization (ILO) securing the right to freedom of association in Belarus.

Maksim Pazniakou and Francisco Massena with the picture of the political prisoner Alaikasandr Yarashuk printed on a T-shirt

During the meeting with the Ministry’s Executive Secretary Francisco Massena and Antonio Lisboa, International Secretary of the Unified Workers’ Central (CUT), the main trade union centre of Brazil, the Acting President of the Belarusian Congress of Democratic Trade Unions presented a document describing the issues faced by Belarusian workers.

Francisco Massena assured him that the defense of trade union freedoms is a priority for the Brazilian Government, particularly in the context of the reforms that had weakened trade union rights in Brazil itself. He said:

“Freedom and trade union organizing are essential to ensure democracy, decent working conditions, and the fair involvement of all workers in economy and distribution of wealth. We shall forward this debate to international organizations, as well as to President Lula”.

Maksim Pazniakau (BKDP), Antonio Lisboa (CUT), and Francisco Massena

The Belarusian unionist handed over an appeal requesting the Brazilian Government to use its international influence to put pressure on the regime of Aliaksandr Lukashenka. The appeal stressed that Belarus is interested in economic cooperation with Brazil, and the authority of President Lula can become a key factor in the release of imprisoned union activists and the restoration of the right to freedom of association.

The BKDP representative expressed hope that diplomatic support coming from Brazil can draw attention to violation of rights in Belarus and become a step towards the restoration of freedom of association in the country.

Maksim Pazniakou’s visit took place within the framework of the International Trade Union Confederation’s General Council meeting that took place in Brasilia. The Council’s discussions focused on issues of tax justice, the Just Transition, and democratic governance.

During a meeting with the President of Brazil Lula da Silva, the ITUC delegation underlined the importance of Brazil’s leading role in promoting workers’ agenda on the international arena. President Lula reconfirmed his Government’s commitment to upholding workers’ rights and strengthening international cooperation in this area.

“Our Government continues its work towards the creation of a Global Alliance against hunger and poverty and supports workers’ efforts in the struggle for justice”, said the President.

The ITUC General Council also approved the 2025 work plan and the roadmap towards its World Congress of 2027.

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