The Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI) extends its warmest congratulations to our affiliate, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), on the success of the 2025 Machinists Wood, Pulp & Paper Council Conference. Held from September 15-19 in Niagara Falls, New York, the conference was a powerful display of solidarity and determination in a time of great challenge for workers worldwide.

This year's agenda was a reflection of the crucial issues facing the workers of the wood and paper industry today. The discussions were not only focused on internal union matters but also on the broader economic, environmental, and social forces shaping our world. From the impacts of trade policies to the urgent need for climate justice, IAM members came together to strategize and strengthen their movement.

A central theme of the conference was the powerful role of international and cross-border solidarity. As IAM International President Brian Bryant highlighted, the only way to counter global corporate power and the devastating effects of trade wars is with a united front. A key point of discussion was the damage caused by tariffs, particularly those implemented with Canada. As a bi-national union with members in both the U.S. and Canada, the IAM recognises that "smart tariffs" are necessary, but the current policies are decimating the industry and hurting workers on both sides of the border.

A particularly poignant discussion centred on the urgent need for action in the Amazon rainforest. BWI has launched the Amazonian Trade Union Network. This alliance is built on the core belief that there can be no climate justice without workers' rights. It aims to empower the people who live and work in the forest, promoting decent work and sustainable practices to counter the destructive extractivism that drives deforestation and exploitation. The IAM's support is considered critical to the success of this campaign.

The conference made it clear that a transition to a greener economy must not leave workers behind. IAM is actively working to ensure that the timber industry, a renewable resource, is part of this future. A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the report, "Reclaiming Our Future: A Climate Jobs Agenda for the IAM," developed in collaboration with Cornell University and the Climate Jobs National Resource Center. This report includes a dedicated chapter on the wood sector and serves as a roadmap for creating good, union jobs while fighting for a climate-safe future.

Discussions also focused on the future of the union itself. With a strong emphasis on organizing, educating, and empowering the next generation of leaders, the IAM is taking proactive steps to ensure its longevity and strength. The union is actively investing in training for young leaders and women. Efforts to combat union-busting and organize in a challenging environment were also central to the discussions.

The conference also touched on the issue of human rights and migration. Recognising that migration is a strength, not a weakness, the IAM is committed to doing more in terms of human rights and strongly disagrees with the anti-migrant policies of the current administration.

As IAM faces a challenging future with tariffs, union-busting, and climate-related issues, the conference demonstrated its determination is even bigger. The discussions and actions taken at the 2025 Machinists Wood, Pulp & Paper Council Conference will not only benefit their members but also strengthen the global labor movement. BWI is proud of the Woodworkers Department Chief of Staff, Mr. Robert Walls, for his great work. This conference has shown that our solidarity is truly global.