The Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI) recently convened its 9th International Youth Committee (IYC) meeting on 09 October 2026, creating necessary momentum to promote global youth solidarity amid ongoing global crises. After an inspiring speech from the outgoing General Secretary Ambet Yuson, the committee stressed the critical importance of youth leadership and collective action in addressing threats to democracy, peace, and trade union rights worldwide.

Reflecting on the challenges of the past period, the committee deliberated on a range of crises facing young workers—from precarious employment and high unemployment to the rise of far-right politics and authoritarian regimes. Outgoing Chair Vinodh Kumar delivered an enthralling speech where he put emphasis on the continued unavailability of decent jobs, attacks on civic space, and the horrifying remnants of wars and unnecessary violence, urging the global youth movement to speak up for peace, international solidarity and the basic right of every single human being to live a life with dignity and safety.

Regional reports showcased a wave of activism across the globe, including climate justice campaigns reaching over 5,000 workers in Africa and the Middle East, the successful Utoya forum in Europe that brought together young trade unionists from 24 affiliates and 19 countries, and ongoing efforts in Asia Pacific and Latin America to increase youth participation and union membership.

Moreover, the International Youth Committee endorsed a new initiative for solidarity calls with young workers in conflict zones such as Ukraine and Palestine and the promotion of the BWI Global Youth Survey for 2027.