Ukraine: Stop the violence - a real dialogue is necessary

European trade unions today strongly condemned the further escalation of violence resulting in the dramatic events on the streets of the Ukrainian capital. Scores of people were left dead and hundreds injured among people protesting legitimately and the law enforcement units. Substantial damage has been caused to public and trade union buildings. This is not a way of resolving problems in a democratic society. There is a need for rational solutions based on developing a consensus based on the national interest and the real needs of the working people and citizens of Ukraine.

Bernadette Ségol, General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) and of the Pan-European Regional Council (PERC) said: “The authorities must exercise maximum restraint and all political forces in the country act responsibly. They need to show political courage and skill and engage in a creative dialogue to find a way out of the crisis that meets the challenge of these demanding times. The Ukrainian people deserve respect for their lives, their rights and a future based on their free choice.”