BWI-LAC attends 12th BRICS Trade Union Forum in South Africa

Denilson Pestana, BWI Regional Committee President for Latin America and the Caribbean and International Affairs Secretary for the New Central Workers’ Union (NCST/Brazil), joined trade union leaders representing various trade union national confederations from the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) in attending the 12th BRICS Trade Union Forum (BTUF) in Durban, South Africa last 26-27 September. 

The event marked a significant in-person gathering, a welcome return to face-to-face meetings after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Carrying the theme "BRICS Trade Union Forum Cooperation for Fair and Inclusive Development for All Peoples of the World - Advancing the Path of Social Justice, Peace, and Dignity,” the activity underscored the need to ensure that economic growth and development translate into tangible benefits for all segments of society, promoting equality, peace, and dignity. It is reported that BRICS countries account for a substantial 26.6 percent of the global gross domestic product (GDP).

The labour leaders who attended the event said that trade unions play an indispensable role in championing workers' rights, advocating for better working conditions, and striving for a more equal society. They said that the BTUF provides a crucial platform where trade union leaders can exchange experiences and ideas, deliberate on strategies, and collaborate on initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for workers and their communities. In an increasingly interconnected world, the BTUF's discussions are set to have a global impact, addressing issues that resonate far beyond the BRICS nations.