On 3 September, Ukrainian miners started an underground protest, demanding a wage increase, improved health and safety, a higher pension and better working conditions.

The protests spread to three other mines, involving almost 400 miners.

Many protesting miners still remain underground.

The protesters' health is deteriorating due to the environment in the mines.

Family members have held solidarity protests above ground, despite reports that they are under pressure to stop.

The Confederation of Free Trade Unions of Ukraine (KVPU) and IndustriALL Global Union have launched an online campaign on LabourStart, calling on management to engage in meaningful negotiations with the miners and their unions, and to refrain from any reprisals against the protesters, union activists and their family members.

Please take a moment to show your support for this campaign here.

And please share this message with your friends, family and fellow trade unionists.