The Public Services International (PSI), a global union federation made up of more than 600 trade unions representing more than 20 million workers who deliver public services in 160 countries around the world, forwarded a letter to President Hugo Chávez showing "deep concern about his recent statements questioning the future of freedom of association in Venezuela."

The communication, dated May 14 and signed by PSI Secretary-General Hans Engelberts, reads: "You stated that in the context of revolution 'trade unions should disappear'. This is a view that raises concern among journalists and media workers in Venezuela, and causes concern among us too."

In this sense, PSI urged Chávez to "clarify these comments, in order to assert Venezuela's continued commitment to its obligations under the international law governing freedom of association."