BWI General Secretary stresses freedom, solidarity, and equal rights at YOL IS Congress

At the 11th YOL IS Congress, the BWI General Secretary Ambet Yuson made an energetic and energizing speech to the more than 750 delegates present by shouting words of “struggle, freedom, peace, solidarity and union” in Turkish. Yuson stated that these words are fundamental for trade unionists in whatever language.

Yuson congratulated YOL IS in its victory in ensuring direct employment contracts for subcontracted workers and welcomed the continuation of the campaign. He also addressed the importance of fighting for the rights of migrant workers and refugees and emphasized BWI’s policy of “equal pay, equal rights for all workers regardless of whether you are a refugee, migrant or national worker.”

In recognizing YOL IS as a strong supporter of equal rights for migrant workers and refugees in Turkey, Yuson noted that, “Today, Europe is embroiled in a struggle for its soul as the onslaught of anti-migrant, xenophobic, nationalist forces seem to dominate the political spectrum throughout Europe. As we look towards the future in creating a more just, equal society, trade unions must be at the forefront in the struggle for all including migrants and refugees for bread, peace, and freedom.”

In addition to Yuson, other international speakers included Johan Lindholm, Vice President of the BWI European Regional and President of BYGGNADS. He pointed out that democratic freedoms, labour and trade union rights are under attack and called for the need to consolidate trade union efforts to fight back and safeguard democratic achievements. Lindholm emphasized that “Our message is clear! All workers must have absolute and unrestricted freedom of association - and the right to strike.”

The Congress decided to prioritise fighting against privatisation and subcontracting in the public sector while increasing union membership by organising in both public and private sectors. The union maintains a strong position against plans to transform a severance payment right into a funded system and emphasized the need to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for all workers.

The Congress re-elected all board members.

BWI congratulates the incoming YOL IS leadership and wishes the union another successful period of development and progress over the next four years.