13. Jan. – In Defence of the Right to Organise

Lech Walesa, former President of “Solidarnosc” and Piotr Duda, present President of the Union, issued a joint statement defending the workers who have been laid off recent weeks due to their trade union membership. The statement reads:

“We, the undersigned:
Lech Walesa, the historic leader of NSZZ “Solidarnosc”, the first President of the III Republic of Poland,
Piotr Duda, the President of the National Commission of NSZZ “Solidarnosc”

wish to express our indignation about the recent cases of dismissal or non-extension of labour contracts of “Solidarnosc” members due to their trade union membership.

In XXI century, in an European Union Member State such practices are absolutely inacceptable, as they set us decades backwards – in the 70s. and 80s. of the last century membership in free trade unions also used to end up with dismissals and persecution.

However, the unionists were harassed by the Communist regime and repression apparatus of the political police, and the country was enslaved in those times. Today, the members of NSZZ “Solidarnosc” are harassed by pseudo-employers and simple dodgers camouflaged in suits and neckties. Ideological grounds were replaced by greed and stupidity. All these things take place in a democratic country, and the authorities, attorneys and courts of law are idly watching. Their indifference stands for allowing for violation of the law. This can not go on!

We call upon the Government, the Attorney’s Office and independent courts of justice to declare war on white collar criminals disrespecting one of the constitutional freedoms, the right to organise trade unions. Considering these crimes as socially harmless must be put to an end. Defend the right to organise for Poles!

Also, the practice of non-payment of wages is a disgrace for independent Poland. Let us call spade a spade: it is a despicable thievery against the workers and their families, often leading to personal tragedies. We call upon the authorities to fight this disgraceful practice.

We address our appeal also to the employers’ organisations. Stigmatise crooks and cheaters in your own ranks, try to get above the unacceptable greed for profits at any cost!”