“CESI stands in solidarity with the Ukrainians who are defending their country and their freedom, and therefore also Europe’s freedom, and with all the people in Russia who are opposing this criminal war.

The independent trade unions united in CESI call upon their members to offer support in welcoming our Ukrainian neighbours who are fleeing this brutal war.

It is time for Europe to come together. This applies not only to politics, but to our societies as a whole. In the face of the existential threat posed by Putin’s war, democracies in Europe and the world over must stand shoulder to shoulder.

All Europeans are now called upon to do their part to defend democracy and freedom and the rights, principles and values enshrined within them; even beyond Russia’s acute acts of aggression. Our freedom has rarely faced a greater threat. And we have rarely been so keenly aware of the liberal and democratic achievements of the past and their importance to us.

There may be difficult times ahead. We must contain Putin’s aggression, prevent the spread of this war, offer assistance to refugees, integrate them into our labour markets and ensure their children receive schooling and vocational training. And there will also be economic and social consequences to face.

This all requires strong trade unions, efficient public services, a resolute civil society and, last but not least, widespread societal cohesion. Functioning social partnerships and trade union pluralism make an enormous contribution to this.

However, along with the current challenges come great opportunities to strengthen solidarity, democracy and freedom on a lasting basis. We call upon politicians to create the framework for these opportunities so that they can be properly grasped.”

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