Unga Byggare, the youth structure of the BWI-affiliated Swedish Building Workers’ Union (Byggnads), held a celebratory week-long youth activity this month to mark its 10th anniversary.

With the full force of youth power, the gathering featured six dynamic workshops and various other activities focused on Swedish politics, the upcoming Byggnads Congress, and Unga Byggare’s efforts to actively shape the union’s democracy by drafting motions and running as delegate candidates. Participants also explored the importance of trade union activism and developed a forward-looking plan for their own future youth activities.

BWI extended its congratulations to Cajsa Holmqvist on her re-election as Chair of Unga Byggare and wished her and the young builders a successful term.

Young builders in Sweden are determined to become more visible and vocal in public discussions. They aim to influence the national debate on the ongoing construction crisis, where approximately 10 percent of all construction workers are unemployed—despite a persistent housing shortage across the country. It is primarily young construction workers who face joblessness in a sector that should be thriving.

Holmqvist also emphasised their continued commitment to exposing and challenging the exploitation of migrant workers, both in Sweden and internationally. “Sweden needs a turning point. And that’s what we want to bring to the forefront in the lead-up to the 2026 election.”