On 9 April, police conducted searches of offices used by the Confederation of Labour of Russia (KTR), the Russian Seafarers’ Union (SUR), and the Federal Trade Union of Air Traffic Controllers (FPAD). We have been informed that the formal grounds for these searches were related to an internal dispute concerning the membership dues within the FPAD.
As a result of the searches, office documents, computers, phones, and other equipment belonging to KTR and its affiliated organisations were seized. At present, we are not aware if criminal charges have been brought against elected trade union leaders or staff members.
“We received timely information regarding the events taking place in trade union offices in Moscow. We are concerned by this development and stand ready to take the necessary steps to defend the rights and interests of our affiliated organisation.
“We are particularly concerned that these events are unfolding on the eve of the 114th International Labour Conference, where issues relating to freedom of association and the protection of trade union rights will be discussed, including in Russia, in the context of the international activities of trade unions. We must emphasise that ILO Convention 87 protects the right of workers to join international trade union organization and to access international trade union solidarity as a core component trade union rights.
In this regard, we have informed the Director-General of the International Labour Organization, and will continue consultations with governments and employers in preparation for the Conference. We expect that there will be no further escalation.” said ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle.
Freedom of association and the right to establish trade unions is core to the fundamental principles and rights at work of the International Labour Organization and constitute the foundation of social dialogue in all countries. The use of mechanisms of international trade union solidarity is not only an inherent right of workers and their organisations but also essential for protecting the interests of trade union members in the context of the global economy.
