Belgium: CSCBIE congress focuses on advancing sustainably

Nearly 700 delegates from the CSC Building, Industry and Energy (CSCBIE) convened in the presence of numerous international delegates at the congress in Houffalize on 30 November 2023, to delineate its main objectives for the next five years under the theme "Going Further, Sustainably."

The primary action points were addressed across three axes: sustainability of the organisation, sustainability of the consultation, and sustainable employment. Pierre Cuppens, General Secretary of the CSCBIE, emphasised, "We need to evolve with our affiliates and develop trade union foundations in a changing world while steadfastly maintaining our values." He reminded participants of the progress made and challenges faced, including Brexit, Covid, the judicialization of collective actions, and the fight against social dumping, which diminishes the ability to fairly remunerate workers in terms of wages and security. Cuppens added, "We advocate for increased inspections and inspectors."

Current resolutions include feasible work, a decent pension for all workers, and fair taxation. Patrick Vandenberghe, President of the CSCBIE, stated, "We also need to emphasise member retention and recruitment, with a particular focus on young people and SME affiliates."

In a panel discussion, Ambet Yuson highlighted, "To bring benefits for workers and their families, the necessary green transition of construction needs to be negotiated with workers and their trade unions. Together, we create a world where every worker is safe and protected."