European trade unions last week issued a call for a “peaceful, efficient and socially acceptable way out of the crisis in Ukraine.” The statement was issued from a Brussels meeting of the Pan-European Trade Union Council, which brings together unions - including Ukrainian unions - from across Europe. The five-point plan calls for: 

1. De-escalation of tensions, respect for the Ukrainian constitution, territorial integrity and withdrawal of all armed forces
2. Free and fair elections to shift to a genuine democratic political system, respect for the rights of all, and investigation of all acts of violence, illegal appropriation of public money and abuse of public office
3. Economic assistance packages from the EU and international financial institutions, without the discredited austerity approach pushed on EU member states by the troika
4. Social dialogue with respect for workers rights'
5. Support for efficient and affordable public services, including priority for stability measures.

Speaking after the meeting, International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) general secretary Sharan Burrow said the plan identified a clear pathway out of the crisis and towards the kind of economy and society the people of Ukraine want and deserve. “Political leaders and the European and global institutions need to start work urgently to fulfill their responsibilities, avoid further turmoil and help Ukraine to get on the right track,” she said. 

Read the full statement HERE.