The GLI, an international network of unionists that BWI has collaborated with for many years, organised a global school for young unionists on November 27-29, 2023, in France. The school brought together over a hundred young unionists, activists, and researchers to share and analyse experiences, stories of struggle, victories, and organizing tactics. The five young unionists from BWI, representing FILCA CISL and FILLEA CGIL from Italy, PROFBUD from Ukraine, CMWEU from Mauritius, and Hong Kong Labour Rights Monitor, attended the school with much enthusiasm, aiming to share, learn, and expand their networks to boost international labor struggle.
The main themes of the school's agenda included challenges in organising, trade unionism and youth, rise of authoritarianism and the climate crisis. BWI young unionists participated as speakers in three sessions to discuss organising migrant workers (Vince Rungasamy from CMWEU), the plight of workers in Ukraine during the war (Kateryna Voloshko from PROFBUD), and the struggle against trade union repression in Hong Kong by a representative from Hong Kong Labour Rights Monitor.
Participants emphasised that the school provided a great opportunity for them to recognise the crucial role of international labor struggle. They felt united by a common motive and inspired to fight for a cause – the power to the people. They highlighted that the school's workshops and networking among unionists and activists motivated and inspired them to continue their fight.
The school approved a manifesto stressing the need for an international trade union movement with permanent alliances and strong global solidarity lines to combat neoliberal attacks on labor, women, and rights. It aims for an equal and just world shaped by young people's activism.
The full text of manifesto
can be read here in English and French.
