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26 August, 2002Following up the IMF aim to promote equality for women, "Union Women" will share IMF knowledge and experience for the benefit of its affiliates and the working women they represent.
GENEVA: The International Metalworkers' Federation has just launched a new section on its website called "Union Women". This special page represents the continuing initiatives of the IMF to ensure that more women workers are organised in trade unions and that women's representation at all levels of trade union organisations is increased.
"When we look at the people who are most active in our unions and holding leadership positions, we do not see many women," comments the IMF general secretary, Marcello Malentacchi, "and yet women's presence in the metalworking industries is growing daily. If we are to organise these new workers, we need to be relevant to their needs and able to demonstrate that we are capable of representing women."
"Union Women" - www.imfmetal.org/women - will focus on concrete strategies used by IMF-affiliated unions to encourage greater participation by women in their organisations and to address issues of particular concern to women.
Although many women will find it useful and informative, the website is particularly intended for union leaders and organisers who may be looking for innovative ways to bring about greater equality for their women members.