Ukrainian care workers' union expands amid war challenges

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Ukrainian care workers' union expands amid war challenges

Martha Ochoa Head of Youth | UNI Global Union

By Sky Industry News

Nov 29, 2024

In Ukraine, a country facing the harsh realities of war, care workers have demonstrated remarkable unity and resilience. Through their union, Be Like Nina (BLN), these healthcare professionals are organizing to protect their livelihoods and improve working conditions while supporting a strained healthcare system.

Since August 2024, Be Like Nina has been actively organizing with the help of UNI Global Union and COZZ organizing centre. This effort spans all 24 administrative regions, including occupied territories, and has reached nearly 2,000 workers. The union has grown by almost 70 percent, with around 140 workers ready to establish new branches at their workplaces.

A member of BLN expressed appreciation for the initiative: “This project is so important, and we are grateful for support! It gave us the opportunity to call every member of the union, whom we reminded that they are not alone with their problems.”

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The challenges faced by Ukrainian care workers are significant. Since the war began, approximately 42,000 care professionals have left the sector due to low wages, morale issues, heavy workloads, and ongoing stress from conflict. Martial law has also added pressure on civil society.

“Be Like Nina’s progress is a beacon of hope for a sector grappling with severe challenges,” said Christy Hoffman, General Secretary of UNI Global Union. She noted that healthcare workers globally face increasing pressures in the wake of COVID-19. However, Ukraine's care workers deal with dual crises: war and healthcare system collapse. “The organizing push by Be Like Nina shows that even in dire circumstances, solidarity creates pathways for progress.”

Hoffman visited Ukraine in June as part of an international solidarity mission, including Ohmatdyt hospital which was later bombed by Russia. Be Like Nina received UNI’s Freedom from Fear Award at the World Congress in August 2023.

For more information about Ukraine's healthcare workers' struggles and achievements, visit the union’s website.