As attacks on workers’ rights, democracy, and trade union freedoms intensify in many parts of the world, the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) is calling on its affiliates to strengthen international solidarity.

As part of the mobilisation toward the 6th BWI World Congress in São Paulo in November 2026, BWI will host a Global Solidarity Webinar: “Stories of Resistance from Cuba and Panama” on Thursday, 19 March 2026, from 13:00 to 14:30 (CET / Geneva). The event will take place on Zoom with interpretation in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Register here. 

 The webinar will bring together BWI affiliates from across the world in a collective moment of solidarity. Participants will hear directly from trade union leaders and workers from Cuba and Panama, where working people and their organisations are facing serious challenges.

In Cuba, workers continue to confront the deep economic and social impacts of the long-standing blockade, which has contributed to severe shortages and an ongoing energy crisis. Through the campaign “Workers of the World with the People of Cuba,” BWI and its affiliates are reaffirming solidarity with the Cuban people and with the National Union of Construction Workers (SNTC).

Many affiliates have already sent video messages of solidarity as part of the campaign, demonstrating the strength of the international trade union movement. These messages are being shared with workers in Cuba and will also be highlighted during the webinar. Affiliates are encouraged to continue sending videos to show that workers around the world stand together.

In Panama, construction workers organised in SUNTRACS are facing escalating attacks on trade union rights, including arrests of union leaders, freezing of union bank accounts, and legal actions aimed at dissolving the union. These actions raise serious concerns for freedom of association and democratic rights.

BWI encourages all affiliates to join the webinar and take part in this global show of solidarity.

Register to participate.