On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a significant act in defense of Labor Justice unfolded in front of the Labor Court in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, drawing together a diverse coalition of stakeholders. The event, supported by the Public Labor Ministry in Mato Grosso do Sul (MPT-MS), included labor prosecutors, judges, lawyers, union representatives, and various civil society organizations. This mobilization was part of a broader national campaign orchestrated by the National Association of Labor Prosecutors (ANPT), the National Association of Judges of Labor (Anamatra), and the Brazilian Association of Labor Lawyers (Abrat), aimed at emphasizing the critical importance of preserving the jurisdiction of Labor Justice.
The rally was particularly prompted by a recent decision from Supreme Court Minister Gilmar Mendes concerning Theme 1389, which addresses the issue of 'pejotização'—the practice of classifying workers as independent contractors to bypass labor laws. This decision has led to the suspension of labor lawsuits related to this matter, causing widespread concern among legal professionals and labor advocates.
During the event in Campo Grande, Cândice Gabriela Arosio, the Chief Prosecutor of MPT-MS, articulated the collective sentiment in a powerful address. "We gather here today not only to defend the jurisdiction of Labor Justice but to ensure the protection of labor rights in Brazil. We face a significant threat, and it is crucial to alert society and all branches of government about the harmful consequences of the recognition of the general repercussions of Theme 1389 and the Extraordinary Appeal No. 1.532.603 currently pending in the Supreme Court," Arosio stated.
She further explained the gravity of the situation, noting that the monocratic decision to suspend all labor lawsuits discussing the existence of fraud in civil/commercial contracts effectively undermines the judicial process. From 2020 to March 2025, over 1.2 million labor claims were filed seeking acknowledgment of employment relationships, constituting 8.30% of new cases in the Labor Justice system across Brazil. Arosio emphasized that only judges in Labor Courts can adequately address these complex cases, as mandated by the Brazilian Constitution.
Moreover, the suspension of these cases poses a significant risk to workers' rights, as it allows for the ongoing 'pejotização' and other fraudulent contract practices that deprive workers of essential labor rights, such as paid vacations, 13th salary, severance pay, and unemployment insurance. Arosio warned that removing this jurisdiction from Labor Justice not only jeopardizes the protective framework for workers but also has broader implications for the Brazilian state, including reduced tax revenue and weakened social policies.
The mobilization on May 7 was not limited to Campo Grande. Across Brazil, similar demonstrations took place in various state capitals, reflecting a unified stance against the perceived threats to Labor Justice. In Porto Velho, Rondônia, the act was held at the headquarters of the 14th Regional Labor Court (TRT-14), featuring prominent figures such as Judge Charles Luz de Trois and prosecutor Camilla Holanda Mendes. In Rio Branco, Acre, the gathering included Judge Paulo Henrique Gonçalves Tenório and other legal representatives, showcasing a robust coalition advocating for labor rights.
In total, acts were organized in multiple states, including Alagoas, Amazonas, Santa Catarina, Paraná, Pernambuco, Rio de Janeiro, and Rio Grande do Sul, demonstrating a nationwide commitment to defend Labor Justice. For instance, in Alagoas, the event was led by Amatra 19 in collaboration with the Labor Advocacy Association of Alagoas (AATAL) and the local Bar Association (OAB/AL). In Manaus, dozens of participants occupied the entrance of the Labor Court, while in Florianópolis, a joint act took place with the presence of various labor organizations.
In Curitiba, the mobilization included representatives from several unions and legal entities, while in Recife, the event drew support from the Central Única dos Trabalhadores (CUT) and the Banking Workers' Union. In Rio de Janeiro, over 300 individuals gathered at the Lavradio Forum, reflecting widespread support for the cause.
The ongoing challenges faced by Labor Justice, particularly in the wake of the recent Supreme Court decision, have sparked a wave of activism aimed at safeguarding workers' rights. The central theme of the mobilizations was to highlight the competence of Labor Justice, which has come under increasing attack. The decision to suspend processes dealing with 'pejotização' has raised alarms about potential restrictions on access to justice and the protection of social rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
As the national mobilization continues, stakeholders remain committed to advocating for the preservation of Labor Justice and the essential rights of workers. The efforts are part of a larger strategy that will include further actions and a potential strike in July, as determined by the 12th Congrejufe, which serves as the highest deliberative body of the Fenajufe.
In summary, the events of May 7 serve as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggle to protect labor rights in Brazil. The collective voices raised across the country reflect a deep commitment to ensuring that the Labor Justice system remains robust and capable of safeguarding the rights of all workers. As the situation develops, advocates remain hopeful that the Supreme Court will ultimately uphold the fundamental principles of labor rights and social justice.
