Global trade unions emphasize peace on World Day for Decent Work

In Ukraine, global trade unions continue to push for peace and sovereignty restoration while expressing concerns over union rights restrictions during wartime. Hoffman shared her experiences from a solidarity mission to Kyiv: “I travelled to Kyiv in May this year as part of an international solidarity mission to show the support of the global labour movement for the Ukrainian people.”

The Middle East crisis sees trade unions calling for an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, safe return of trapped workers, increased humanitarian aid, and a two-state solution. UNI recently filed an ILO complaint supporting Palestinian workers affected by conflict-related employment issues.

Hoffman recounted meeting with UNI affiliates in Ramallah: “I met with UNI affiliates in Ramallah earlier this year and heard the realities they face under an increasingly violent occupation.” She emphasized that despite challenges, efforts must continue towards achieving a sovereign Palestine alongside a secure Israel.

Luc Triangle from ITUC stressed government failures in diplomatic conflict resolutions while urging worker involvement: “Governments are failing to resolve conflicts through diplomacy... Workers must be involved in the peace and reconstruction processes if they are to succeed.”

On this day dedicated to decent work globally, trade unions unite in calling for an end to violence across various conflict-affected regions.