Dear Comrades,
The European Dockworkers’ Council (EDC) expresses its full and unconditional support for the Swedish Dockworkers’ Union (SDU) and its Vice President, Erik
Helgeson, in the face of the attacks and reprisals they are encountering in their fight for fair labor rights and the defense of union activities.

The national strike called by the SDU is a legitimate and necessary action to demand essential improvements, such as the regulation of temporary workers, protection for
union representatives, and safe working conditions in a sector that operates 24/7.

We also strongly condemn the arbitrary and unfounded dismissal of Erik Helgeson, which we consider a direct attack not only against him but against the entire
European trade union movement.

At EDC, we firmly believe that our strength, combativeness and solidarity are principles that must be materialized in concrete actions. Therefore, EDC has
proposed to organize a coordinated action across all EDC-affiliated ports and to contribute as part of the unseen but vital support for the union’s fight and the legal
expenses that this situation has caused, is causing, and will inevitably cause, as a show of support. All member unions are invited to discuss and validate this proposal
at EDC next meeting on May 21.

This mobilization will not only be an act of solidarity with our comrades at the SDU but also a clear signal to employers and European institutions that we will not
tolerate union discrimination or attempts to weaken our organizations. Unity and determination are our greatest strengths to defend our comrades anywhere in
Europe.

We reiterate that we will never accept a worker losing their job for defending the rights of all of us. It is our collective responsibility to respond firmly and demonstrate
that the European trade union movement is strong and united.

In solidarity and struggle,

Anthony Tetard
EDC Coordinator