Brussels, 06/09/2013 Since the coup d’état in 2006, the people of Fiji have been suffering from a deterioration in their social situation, including the non-respect of basic human rights, in particular, the right to freedom of association, assembly and expression. For this reason, both the ETUC and the ITUC demand to meet Ms Ashton in order to discuss the matter – with a view to pressing for the EU to help reverse the situation - at the earliest possible convenience.

Bruxelles, 02/09/2013 The ETUC is deeply concerned that despite that guarantees given by Colombia to respect trade union rights, notably in the context of the Free Trade Agreement with the EU, a prominent trade union leader could be arrested in what appears to be an attempt to intimidate the organisations involved in the national strikes.

Brussels, 02/09/2013

Brussels, 29/08/2013 In its open letter, the ETUC stresses that Latvia and Ireland, having shed 20 and 15% of all jobs, can hardly be seen as an example to follow. The only lesson to learn from Latvia is that action to restore growth must come first! Europe should delay applying a 3% deficit limit until economies return to health and a strong recovery is secured– probably around 2016-2017. The ETUC’s open letter also denounces the race to the bottom that the Commission’s wage competition is provoking in many Member States

Brussels, 29/07/2013

Brussels, 29/07/2013

Brussels, 18/07/2013 “We supported the accession of Turkey to the EU, but are extremely concerned about the increasing intimidation and repression of the opposition and of some trade unions. We condemn the ongoing breaches of fundamental human rights and call on the Turkish Government to respect ILO core labour standards as well as the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights” said Bernadette Ségol.

Brussels, 17/07/2013

Brussels, 15/07/2013 In a letter sent to the Presidents of GSEE and ADEDY, Bernadette Ségol, General Secretary of the ETUC, expressed full support for the general strike on 16 July to protest against the lay-off of thousands of public servants in Greece as a consequence of the unilateral measures imposed by the Troika.

Brussels 15/07/2013 The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) welcomes the positive vote of the European Parliament’s Employment Committee, which ensures a minimum share of 25% for the European Social Fund (ESF) in the next programming period 2014-2020.

Brussels, 10/07/2013 As already stated in our Press Release of March 1st 2012, we reiterate our view that harmonisation plans should be reconsidered as they would have negative effects on the existence and adequacy of occupational pensions and the resources available for company investments in growth and jobs. Moreover, the fundamental differences that exist between insurance companies and IORPs mean that such harmonisation is not justified.

Brussels, 01/07/2013 The ETUC reminds the Croatian Government of the importance of involving the social partners at an early stage during the public consultations process. It regrets that the Government did not follow that approach in relation to the Law recently adopted on relations between the Parliament and the Government in EU affairs. It calls for a commitment on its part to ensure genuine and substantive social dialogue. The ETUC also reiterates its principled support for free movement of EU workers.

Brussels, 27/06/2013 The ETUC demands a stimulus package of investment for jobs. The struggle against the scourge of unemployment, notably that of young people, demands significant investment. The ETUC reminds the European leaders that it is still waiting for the roadmap on the social dimension of the EU, which was announced in Dec 2012. The General Secretary stressed the urgency of calling a halt to failed policies and, one year before the European elections, demands that the Council takes appropriate action against populist movements in Europe.