Under the overarching theme, the conference sessions encompassed a blend of in-person and online presentations, allowing a diverse array of voices and perspectives to converge. With a focus on Belarus and beyond, the conference delved into multifaceted discussions on labor rights, international standards, harassment issues, and the role of trade unions.
The event commenced with an inaugural session featuring esteemed speakers Dr. Krzysztof Rybinski, EHU Rector, Dr. Liudmila Ulyashyna, Head of the Center for Constitutionalism and Human Rights, and Maryia Zharylouskaya, Coordinator of Academic Department of Social Sciences, setting the stage for thought-provoking deliberations.
“It’s highly timely that this conference happens at the European Humanities University. Not only that it deals with very important topics of protection of human rights in Belarus, which requires predicted analysis and attention because of the massive violations of human rights in this country by Lukashenko’s regime, but also that it happens at the EHU. At the time we are discussing internally how to transform our regulations so that we have good working conditions, an environment without harassment, and faculty and staff interests properly represented in the dialogue of the University management and the governing bodies. Our principle is openness and transparency, so we are very eager to listen to the opinions of our stakeholders on how we should improve our European Humanities University environment so that we all are happy to work and develop here,” Prof. Krzysztof Rybinski said.
Panel 1, moderated by Dr. Aliaksandr Kalbaska, addressed Freedom of Association and Workers’ Associations, offering insights into the landscape of trade unions in Belarus and Lithuania. Reports by experts such as Dr. Liudmila Ulyashina, Julia Ostrovskaia, Laura Matjosaityte, Vytautas Valentinavičius, and Monika Antanaitytė shed light on various facets of freedom of association and harassment issues, particularly within the context of different societal groups.
Panel 2, steered by Dr. Frank Hoffer, explored the Rights of Workers and Human Rights, dissecting national laws and international standards. Keynote speeches from Oksana Wolfson, Maksim Pazniakou, Yury Ravavoi, and Yanina Unnli delved into the implementation of freedom of association, historical perspectives, case studies, and comparative international experiences, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of global labor dynamics.
The conference culminated in a vibrant general discussion highlighting the pivotal role of EHU in civic society education and the defense of human rights in relation to freedom of association and trade unions’ rights. Dr. Liudmila Ulyashina, along with Maryia Zharylouskaya and Maksim Pazniakou, delivered compelling closing remarks underscoring the significance of such dialogues in shaping a more equitable and rights-conscious society.
Also, during the conference, there was an exhibition dedicated to repressed leaders and activists of the Belarusian labour movement, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals advocating for workers’ rights in Belarus amidst challenging circumstances, with active assistance in its preparation provided by the Department of Humanities and Arts.
The event’s success was a testament to the commitment of EHU in fostering an intellectual environment conducive to addressing contemporary socio-legal challenges. The insightful discourse and diverse perspectives exchanged during this conference pave the way for further collaboration and advocacy in ensuring fundamental rights for workers and individuals worldwide.
The conference was supported by OSUN Science Shop.
