Next Tuesday, on the 22nd, Brazilian dock workers will stage a nationwide strike in response to a bill that will be presented in the Chamber of Deputies the following day. The movement, organized by the category, aims to pressure lawmakers to reconsider the proposals in the bill, which, according to the workers, poses a threat to their rights and to the functioning of public ports.

The primary concern raised by the workers is the removal of labor rights for casual workers and dock workers in general. Additionally, the bill proposes the elimination of the public docks at the Port of Santos, the largest port in Latin America and crucial to Brazil’s economy. Workers argue that this change could have serious impacts, not only on the professionals but also on the port infrastructure and the country’s logistics sector.

The strike will involve around 60,000 workers across Brazil, with approximately 20,000 concentrated in Santos. For 12 hours, port activities will be halted, directly impacting port operations. This stoppage reflects the workers’ dissatisfaction and underscores the need for dialogue between authorities and unions.

This mobilization is not just a fight for rights, but also an attempt to protect jobs and maintain decent working conditions. The category argues that the bill not only undermines the sector but also paves the way for privatization that could harm Brazil’s global competitiveness.

The outcome of this strike and the progress of the bill in the Chamber of Deputies will be crucial for the future of Brazil’s ports and the workers who rely on this strategic sector. The expectation is that the movement will pressure the government to reconsider the proposal and open a channel for dialogue with workers’ representatives.

This strike demonstrates the strength and organization of dock workers, who are not willing to accept changes that compromise their rights and dignity.