26 November, 2024From Türkiye to Indonesia, Ukraine, and Palestine, the IndustriALL Executive Committee meeting reflected a shared commitment to tackling the evolving challenges faced by workers globally. As crises intensify and anti-union movements rise, the importance of collective action and global solidarity has never been clearer.
Solidarity was central at IndustriALL Executive Committee meeting in Istanbul on 21-22 November. Leaders of IndustriALL affiliates discussed challenges faced by workers worldwide, displaying a collective resolve to support workers’ rights across borders.
The presidents of Turkish unions Petrol-İş and Türk Metal welcomed delegates to Istanbul and Petrol-İş’ buiklding, emphasizing the importance and benefits of organizing and solidarity in strengthening the labour movement.
Their remarks set the tone for the discussions that followed, which tackled both regional and global crises affecting workers. Marie Nilsson, president of IndustriALL and Swedish union IF Metall, called for urgent support for 900 miners in Ankara's Çayırhan district, who are protesting underground against the privatization of their mine and an associated thermal plant. Facing potential job losses, the miners vow to continue their protest until the government reverses its decision.
General secretary Atle Høie highlighted the growing challenges trade unions face globally, particularly as anti-union sentiments gain traction in political and corporate spheres. Referencing the recent US election and controversial figures such as Elon Musk assuming prominent roles, he stressed the need for unity.
"Our answer has to be unity. We may differ on approaches to conflicts or dealings with global institutions, but we stand united on collective bargaining, organizing, and defending fundamental trade union rights. If we fail to unite, we risk empowering anti-union agendas worldwide."
And when we come together, we win. In his report, Atle Høie mentioned the significant victory of unions in Indonesia, where their fight has resulted in the repeal of key provisions of the controversial Omnibus law.
“This is a major victory and I congratulate our Indonesian affiliates on their achievement, which gives inspiration to all of us in our fight against regressive governments.”
Lesia Semeniaka from Ukraine painted a sobering picture of a nation ravaged by war. She detailed the devastating toll on agriculture and energy infrastructure, with only 24 out of 145 coal mines still operational. Amid mounting challenges, the resilience of Ukraine’s workers and unions was underscored as a testament to the enduring spirit of solidarity.
From Palestine, Sahar Abdo urged the global labour movement to remain vocal about the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the West Bank. She expressed gratitude for a recent solidarity visit by Atle Høie, describing it as a landmark moment that reinforced the importance of international support during dire times.
The Executive Committee also heard of challenges faced by workers in Germany, as Volkswagen employees grapple with the prospect of large-scale job losses. Christiane Benner, IG Metall president, appealed for international solidarity to back these workers during a critical juncture.
Ivana Smajlovic provided updates from the Women's Committee held online earlier this month. A mentorship programme for young women in Tanzania, Malawi, Ghana, Peru, and Colombia, supported by LO Norway, was recently launched. The initiative aims to empower the next generation of female trade union leaders.
Additionally, in preparation for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence campaign, IndustriALL will amplify its #NoExcuse initiative, calling for collective action against gender-based violence.
In the strategic discussion on AI, the Executive Committee was introduced to the first draft of IndustriALL’s AI policy. The paper addresses challenges and opportunities with increased prominence of AI in the workplace. The policy and demands include, among other things, making sure that transparency and accountability are secured at all workplaces, that workers can adapt to technological changes and lead to better job security, and strengthening legal protection for collective bargaining. focusing algorithm management and data privacy, skills and reskilling, occupational health and safety, redistribution of wealth and productivity, and organizing.
As pointed out during the discussion, AI systems must be carefully evaluated and tested before they are used, taking into account the criteria on discrimination. Social safety nets to provide financial stability for workers in an increasingly AI-automated economy was also highlighted for further consideration.
The second draft of the AI policy will be ready by end of March next year, and will be preceded continued information gathering, as well as by a youth workshop on AI and a meeting of the Industry 4.0 expert group.
Preparations are underway for IndustriALL 4th Congress in November next year. Affiliates from all around the world will come together Sydney, Australia, under the banner of Organizing for a just future.
Concluding the two days of meeting, Atle Høie said:
"Victories in one part of the world inspire us all. Together, we must continue to build a united front for workers' rights everywhere."