Vladimir Putin met with members of the Asia Pacific Labour Network of the ICFTU (International Confederation of Free Trade Unions) in the run-up to the APEC summit in Vladivostok.

Vladimir Putin and Mikhail Shmakov discussed trade unions’ activities and support measures for different economic sectors in connection with Russia’s accession to the World Trade Organisation.

Dmitry Medvedev took part in a May Day march organised by the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Russia.

Dmitry Medvedev met with trade union leaders from the G20 countries.

Issues discussed included improving workers’ financial conditions, employers’ provision of social guarantees, possible effects of Russia's further integration into the global economy on workers’ social situation, as well as social protection mechanisms and forms of organisation of the working process for new categories of workers that have emerged from the introduction of modern technologies.

Salaries, improving workers’ social status, vocational training, economic incentives for employers to improve labour conditions and safety, and monitoring compliance with legislation were the subjects of discussion.

Dmitry Medvedev approved a list of instructions issued following a December 15 meeting with trade unions leaders

Dmitry Medvedev discussed the economic and social results of the year, the labour market situation, labour migration issues, and economic modernisation with Russia’s trade union leaders. 

Dmitry Medvedev signed law ratifying Workers' Representatives Convention which grants workers' representatives certain rights that allow them to fulfil their functions quickly and efficiently.