Frode Alfheim, president of Norwegian union Styrke and head of the prize committee, said: “Aliaksandr Yarashuk stood firm in defence of workers’ rights even when it meant losing his freedom. His bravery, dignity, and deep commitment to democratic values are an inspiration to all of us.”
Aliaksandr Yarashuk is President of the Belarusian Congress of Democratic Trade Unions (BKDP), a member of the ILO Governing body and has been imprisoned since April 2022 by the Lukashenko regime for his work for trade unions and democracy.
“Aliaksandr Yarashuk represents the very best of our movement. His courage in the face of tyranny reminds us all why international solidarity is vital. We honour him and stand with all those fighting for free and independent unions in Belarus.” ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle
“The ITUC calls for the release of all imprisoned trade unionists in Belarus and stands in full solidarity with the BKDP.”