28 April 2026 – International Day in Memory of Workers Killed and Injured in Workplace Accidents and World Day for Safety and Health at Work

Today we pay tribute to all workers who have been injured or lost their lives at work. This is a day of remembrance, solidarity, and a clear call for safer, healthier, and more dignified working conditions for all.

According to NSSI data for 2025, 2,826 occupational accidents were registered in Bulgaria, 76 of which were fatal. The “Transport” sector continues to be among the most risky – with 319 occupational accidents and 14 killed workers.

At the European level, the worrying trends are also deepening. At a meeting in Nicosia, the Executive Committee of ETF highlighted the growing violence against transport workers, the worsening staff shortage, and the ever-weakening interest of young people and women in transport professions.

A recent ETF survey among more than 1,700 women working in the sector shows a troubling reality:
• over 70% have been victims of violence or harassment
• almost half say that abuse in the workplace is a common occurrence

These data reveal everyday risks that should not be accepted as normal.

 In Bulgaria, FTTU once again raises the issue of safety in the transport sector. The recent serious incidents involving trams and other transport accidents clearly show serious systemic problems:
• shortage of staff
• excessive overtime
• lack of sufficient rest
• outdated rolling stock
• high workload, stress, and risk for workers

In addition, the growing digitalization, the use of artificial intelligence, and the new forms of control over work create new psychosocial risks – increased stress, insecurity, loss of autonomy, and worsened mental health.

Today representatives of institutions, trade unions, and employer organizations bowed their heads before the memory of victims of occupational incidents. The chair of FTTU, Eng. Alexander Shopov, laid flowers in front of the memorial plaque in front of the CITUB building as a sign of respect to all workers who have died or been injured.

The message of FTTU is clear:
Every worker deserves respect, protection, and a safe workplace.

Real and urgent action is needed:
• Providing sufficient staff, not cuts
• Zero tolerance for violence in the workplace
• Strong preventive measures and real support for those affected
• Improving working conditions and modernizing the transport system
• Effective management of emerging psychosocial risks

FTTU will continue to consistently advocate for concrete policies and solutions in defense of transport workers, because human life, health, and dignity stand above all.