CFMEU leader calls for union rights defence amidst escalating attacks in Asia Pacific

On 7 November 2024, Dave Noonan, Vice President of the Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) Asia-Pacific, and Construction Secretary of the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU), delivered a powerful speech at the iconic Broken Chair monument outside the Palace of Nations in Geneva. Addressing a global audience of trade union leaders, affiliates, and supporters, Noonan highlighted the urgent need for solidarity in defending workers' rights, democracy, and freedom of association.

Speaking against the escalating repression against trade unionists in Asia-Pacific and beyond, Noonan drew attention to the the plight of union members in countries like Myanmar, the Philippines, and South Korea, where repression, violence, and unjust imprisonment persist. He highlighted that such violations demand immediate international action, particularly from organisations like the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Noonan criticised the Australian government’s intervention in the CFMEU, condemning the appointment of an external administrator as a blatant violation of democratic principles and ILO conventions. He detailed how 157 elected representatives were removed from office, union assets were seized, and democratic control was stripped from 100,000 members. "The government’s actions spit in the face of the principle of being held innocent until proven guilty," Noonan declared. "Their disregard for freedom of association and the right to organise is crystal clear. We demand the restoration of democratic control to CFMEU members and urge the global community to hold Australia accountable."

Acknowledging the resilience of union members, Noonan praised the mass mobilisation of tens of thousands of Australians who marched in solidarity with CFMEU. He called on BWI affiliates and the international community to amplify their support and intensify pressure on the Australian government to honour its obligations under ILO conventions. "Let’s make a stand for union rights. Let’s make a stand for democracy across the globe. Let’s be BWI. Let’s be union. Let’s be proud."

The location of Noonan’s speech, the Broken Chair monument, served as a symbolic backdrop. Representing the fragility of civil society and the struggles for freedom and justice, it also symbolises we, the people’s resilience and power to find balance amidst adversity.

BWI stands firmly with Dave Noonan, CFMEU, and all trade unions facing repression. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to defending democratic principles, supporting union members worldwide, and ensuring the upholding of international labour standards.