The  Social Employers and EPSU joint statement on the situation in Ukraine 

The Federation of European Social Employers and the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) condemn Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine and deplore the atrocities that have been committed against Ukrainian civilians. 

The latest revelations come after two month of the Russian war and occupation in Ukraine. During that time, the United Nations estimates that around 10 million Ukrainians have been displaced, including 5 million who have fled to neighbouring countries. 
 
In EU countries that border with Ukraine, social services are working tirelessly to receive and care for refugees – with many children, older persons and persons with disabilities amongst them. 
 
The Social Employers’ and EPSU members in neighbouring countries are continuously providing accommodation and transportation, food and other essential goods, as well as assisting with day care, therapies and rehabilitation services. They report that funds and supplies are urgently needed. 
 
We stand with our members and affiliates organising care in these countries and support their calls for more funding and resources from the EU so that they can continue to accommodate new arrivals and provide a lifeline for the most vulnerable.  
 
EPSU also has affiliated unions in Ukraine which represent thousands of members. Many Ukrainian union colleagues and social workers are fleeing or fighting, and much of the infrastructure for social work has been destroyed in Ukraine as a result of the Russian invasion. We stand in solidarity and send our support to those who continue to provide vital social services in Ukraine. 
 
EPSU and the Social Employers stand for peace. Our thoughts are with the Ukrainian people. 

The press release is available HERE

Note to Editors: 

The Federation of European Social Employers represents employers in the social services sector at European level and has, according to Eurofound, the most significant employer’s representativeness in the private sector part of social services. The Federation’s objectives are to strengthen the position of employers in social services at European and national level, establish common positions between members, and negotiate with European Trade Union Associations, representing workers in social services.  

The European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) brings together trade unions from across Europe and represents over 8 million public service workers. It is the most representative European trade union organisation in the social services sector. EPSU works hard to deliver better working conditions, improved health and safety and enhanced rights for its members. By sitting down with employers at European level, we negotiate best practice agreements that improve the working lives of public service workers and ensure quality services for citizens.

For more information contact:

Tamara Gomez-Sanchez 
Project & Communications Officer
Tamara.gomez-sanchez@socialemployers.eu