The BWI Global Young Workers Forum opened on Sunday with a powerful and emotional moment on Utøya, Norway. As participants arrived on the island, they stepped into a place that stands as both a symbol of sorrow and hope, deeply marked by the tragedy of the 2011 Norway attacks, and at the same time, a space of resilience and collective strength.

For nearly a century, Utøya has been at the heart of the Norwegian labour movement. Generations of young people have come here to learn that democracy is not passive; it is built through participation, solidarity, and collective action. It is also a place to honour the 69 lives lost in 2011, and to reaffirm a shared commitment to peace, justice, and democratic values.

The forum brought together 33 young trade unionists from 24 affiliates across 19 countries and 5 continents. The opening session featured a powerful address by Kim Söderström, President of Byggnads, Sweden, who reminded participants that their presence at Utøya is itself a testament to the strength and resilience of trade union values.

A guided walk across the island allowed participants to learn more about its history and reflect on the events of 2011. These moments of remembrance brought feelings of grief and sadness, but also reinforced hope, resistance, and the collective power of solidarity against hate.

Over the coming days, this new generation of union leaders will confront the rise of far-right movements and their impact on labour rights and civic space. Together, they will exchange ideas and build strategies to defend democracy, equality, and social justice. The Forum will also have sessions to prepare youth representation at the upcoming BWI Congress.