European unions visit Unite to bolster solidarity efforts

Unite’s sister unions in the construction sector from Belgium, France, and Italy visited the Canary Wharf Learning Centre (CWLC) in London's Docklands last week. The CWLC, a partnership between Canary Wharf Contractors and Unite, has been supporting workers in developing skills for over 20 years. The delegation comprised of trade union representatives affiliated with the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) met with tutors and workers to discuss ideas around workplace learning and toured various new building projects in Canary Wharf, including the significant Wood Wharf development.

During the visit, the international delegates joined the Unite-Construction's National Industrial Sector Committee (NISC) meeting in London, where they shared insights into the challenges faced by their unions in Europe. Jean-Pascal François from FNSCBA CGT emphasised the importance of international union links, stating, "We need to fight as one people." Marco Benati from FILLEA CGIL highlighted concerning developments in Italy, including the rise of far right support and inadequate safety conditions in the construction sector.

Alexandre Govaerts from CG-FGTB presented the history of building workers' unions in Belgium, noting that union density is around 55 percent overall but 90 percent in construction. He stressed the necessity of international union solidarity, remarking, "Capital is organised internationally, and so we as unions must be too." Acting Chair Billy Parry thanked the international delegates for addressing the meeting and discussing issues in their countries and workplaces, particularly the growing threat of the far right.

Commenting on the visit, Stuart Grice from Unite said, "It was great to welcome our comrades from France, Italy, and Belgium and show them what we do. The work we do in the sector, and as a union internationally, is of vital importance and a link we must keep building on." The visit underscored the importance of international collaboration among unions in addressing shared challenges and reinforcing solidarity across borders.