MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Brazilian healthcare unions accuse Bolsonaro of crimes against humanity for his handling of the pandemic

A complaint containing evidence statements from unions representing one million healthcare workers has been submitted to the International Criminal Court

Brazilian healthcare workers are urging the International Criminal Court to investigate President Jair Bolsonaro's government for crimes against humanity for its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

A complaint containing evidence statements from unions representing more than one million healthcare workers has been submitted to the Hague-based court.

The unions accuse Bolsonaro's administration of being "criminally negligent" in its management of the COVID-19 outbreak, jeopardizing the lives of healthcare professionals and the general public.

Bolsonaro has been at odds with many of the country's governors, opposing restrictions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, including stay at home measures.

Bolsonaro, who just tested negative for the coronavirus after being infected with the virus for nearly three weeks, has repeatedly said, the restrictions hurt the country's economy.

Brazil has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Latin America, with more than 2.4 million cases and more than 87,000 deaths.