He believed in us when others stayed silent

We need to acknowledge a loss that touches not only Belarusian trade unionists, but the global labour movement as a whole. Dan Gallin passed away few days ago. He was a committed organizer, a mentor to many, and a friend to those who needed solidarity most.

Dan Gallin

Dan Gallin served as General Secretary of the IUF from 1968 to 1997. Under his leadership, the IUF became a stronger, more democratic, and globally connected organization. He supported workers not only in the formal sectors but also in informal and precarious work. He promoted women’s participation in unions and worked tirelessly to support the development of independent unions in countries emerging from authoritarian systems.

After stepping down from the IUF, he co-founded the Global Labour Institute — an organization focused on political education for trade unionists and the promotion of democratic socialism. He spent his life building networks, encouraging internationalism, and supporting those whose rights were under threat.

In Belarus, we remember him not only for what he stood for, but for how he stood with us. When repression against independent unions intensified and international attention faded, Dan stayed in touch. He spoke out when others remained silent. He believed in us when few did.

In 2021, on the 30th anniversary of the Belarusian Independent Trade Union — a member of the Belarusian Congress of Democratic Trade Unions — Dan shared these words:

"Our history teaches us that dictatorships never last, however strong they may seem for a time, whereas workers will never cease to organize democratic trade unions in their permanent struggle for freedom and for justice, for themselves and for society."

This quote is not just a reflection on the past — it speaks directly to the present.

Today, all independent trade unions in Belarus have been delegalized by the authorities. Dozens of leaders and activists are imprisoned. Thousands have been forced into exile or silence. The regime wants to erase the very idea of independent worker organization.

And yet, the story is not over.

As Dan reminded us, workers will not stop organizing. Even now we are keeping the idea alive.

We remember Dan Gallin today not just because he is gone, but because what he stood for is still needed. His belief in freedom of association, in international solidarity, in the power of workers to shape their future — that belief continues in our actions.

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