UNIA pushes for decent pensions, better wages and reduced working hours
UNIA, the Swiss affiliate of BWI, convened an "extraordinary congress" in Bern on October 21, attended by around 300 delegates. The event focused on reforming various statutes and the adoption of resolutions aimed at advancing campaigns on improved pensions, better wages, and reduced working hours, all while ensuring full wage and staff compensation for workers.
The gathering was preceded by a massive process comprised of over 30 online meetings wherein hundreds of members and workers took part and contributed more than a thousand ideas and other proposals. This began as early as 2021 as part of a mandate given by UNIA’s regular congress to continue to develop an inter-professional union for everyone, and to improve the use of resources. The union aspires to grow and broaden its relevance, while strengthening its anchor in workplaces.
After extensive deliberations, the congress delegates have identified three reform packages to jumpstart the reorganisation of their trade union work:
- Clearer separation between strategy and implementation.
- Increased member involvement in strategic decision-making.
- Enhanced decision-making authority for professional committees in operational matters.
The first package aims to engage active members in strategic decisions by restructuring the central board. The latter two packages address the design and coordination of internal organisational units, with a focus on harmonising these areas for improved integration and coordination among a diverse range of industry and regional committees.
Photos: UNIA