In a written statement, the platform emphasized that trade union rights are constitutionally protected and fundamental to democratic society. It argued that the arrests are not isolated incidents, but part of a broader pattern aimed at suppressing organized labor and silencing workers’ collective voice.

The statement highlighted several detained union figures, noting that their only “offense” was standing alongside workers in factories, shipyards, and mines, and advocating for their rights. According to the platform, these actions are being deliberately criminalized to weaken labor movements and discourage unionization.

The platform also pointed to structural issues within the country’s labor landscape, including low unionization rates in the private sector, restrictions on strikes, and deteriorating economic conditions. It stressed that without trade union freedoms, fair wages and dignified working conditions cannot be achieved.

Furthermore, the statement criticized what it described as the politicization of the judiciary, arguing that the arrests extend beyond union leaders to include journalists, artists, and opposition figures, indicating a wider crackdown on dissent.

Concluding its remarks, the platform underscored the significance of the upcoming International Workers’ Day, pledging to continue defending the right to organize and calling for broader solidarity. It reiterated its central message: the struggle for labor rights will persist until justice is secured and detained unionists are freed.