The BWI Global Young Workers Forum concluded with a powerful message reaffirming young workers’ commitment to international solidarity to defend democracy and push back against the rise of far-right forces.

Throughout the programme, participants engaged with key historical milestones of the labour movement and its traditions of resistance. They took part in workshops exploring different perspectives on democracy and contributed to panel discussions examining the impact of far-right politics on labour rights and equality. These exchanges created space to share experiences on how trade unions organise, resist, and build power in challenging contexts.

Participants also heard diverse strategies and organising methods aimed at strengthening the role of trade unions. A particularly moving moment came through personal testimonies from relatives and a survivor of the 2011 terrorist attack on Utøya, highlighting how solidarity and love can prevail over hatred.

The Forum brought together a deep sense of both grief and hope, underlining the vital role of international solidarity in confronting the rise of far-right and fascist ideologies. Discussions stressed the urgency of organising young people into trade unions and sustaining collective resistance to extremist narratives.

In addition, participants were briefed on BWI’s work and key political and practical elements of the upcoming BWI Congress. A working group was established to finalise the draft global youth resolution and additional resolutions to shape the BWI’s future youth work, which will be submitted to the Congress.

At the close of the Forum, participants collectively described their experience at Utøya with three defining words: unity, solidarity, and friendship.