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Brazilian unions: CUT, Forza Sindical and UGT, along with UNI Americas have gathered in Porto Alegre to participate in the Social Forum, exchange information, and denounce the company’s union busting actions.

The Network’s and UNI Americas repeated efforts for genuine dialogue with the company have failed. During the meetings held in 2013, various representatives of Walmart gave their commitment to the Brazilian unions and UNI to act on the problems identified, and to give clear information on the decision to close 25 stores. Empty promises. The company pretends it is conducting a dialogue, but continues to show disrespect toward trade unions and UNI. "Since May 13, we have been claiming that critical problems are resolved. The company takes notes and never responds”, said Eduardo San Roman, Director of UNI Commerce.

And they are not minor problems. These are serious issues that undermine the rights of workers, their health and dignity: The roof collapse at a warehouse in the city of Joao Pessoa, structural and HVAC problems, forced stay in the job (forcing a worker to relieve herself in front of customers and peers, with the resulting humiliation). And it is not an isolated event: this constant practice has created serious conditions among Walmart’s staff.

"Walmart does not want to hear the voices of workers around the world who are denouncing anti-union and anti-labour behaviour. Poor wages, poor working conditions, "said Adriana Rosenzvaig , Regional Secretary of UNI Americas. " Nor are they listening to many of its shareholders and customers who are tired of a company lacking any social sensitivity, that exploits workers, corrupts governments, and destroys the environment", stated Adriana .

It is worth noting that in 2013 Walmart in Brazil was condemned by the Ministry of Labour to pay a fine of USD 10 million for repeated acts of harassment and discrimination against its workers. Among other things, they were forced to sing and dance the motivational anthem of the company.