On March 25–26, a meeting of the North-East Europe region of the European Public Services Union (EPSU) is taking place in Tbilisi, Georgia. The meeting focuses on discussing the most pressing issues facing public sector workers, strengthening trade union cooperation, and seeking joint solutions at the regional level.
The meeting brings together trade union leaders and representatives from Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Georgia, Armenia, and Ukraine. Among the participants from Lithuania is Dalia Jakutavičė, President of the Lithuanian Industry Trade Union Federation.
The event places strong emphasis on the protection of workers’ rights, strengthening collective bargaining, and enhancing the role of trade unions in the context of today’s challenges.
Participants were welcomed by representatives of Georgian trade unions. Opening remarks were delivered by EPSU General Secretary Jan Willem Goudriaan and Yurii Pizhuk, Head of the Trade Union of Civil Servants of Ukraine and Chair of the EPSU North-East Europe region.
A presentation was delivered by minister Georgian Minister Mikheil Sarjveladze, responsible for labour, health and social protection policy, as well as issues related to refugees from the occupied territories. Leaders of the Georgian Trade Union Confederation also presented the country’s current situation and the challenges faced by workers.
Later, participants will discuss strengthening the role of trade unions, increasing membership, and developing new leaders. Special attention is given to youth engagement and equality issues, highlighting the need to strengthen the voice of young workers within trade unions.
The latest EPSU priorities will also be discussed, including the implementation of the European Union directive on adequate minimum wages and its impact on countries in the region.
In addition, representatives of national organizations will present the challenges in their respective countries, particularly those related to collective bargaining and trade union rights.
These annual regional meetings serve as an important platform for exchanging experience, strengthening solidarity, and coordinating joint actions to defend the interests of public sector workers.
