UNI Post & Logistics World Conference addresses industry challenges at Bangkok meeting

Dave Ward, UNI Post & Logistics World President and General Secretary of the Communication Workers Union (UK), criticized common narratives around modernization in the sector. “Some governments and business leaders will say to us that their proposals are about modernization. But who gave them the ownership of the word modernization? We trade unions know that there is nothing modern in liberalization, there is nothing modern in privatization, and there is nothing modern in gig economy!” He added: “It is time we set our agenda on the term modernization in the interest of workers, customers and the future of postal services.”

UNI General Secretary Christy Hoffman spoke about unions' roles amid ongoing changes. “Trade unions need to be part of the ongoing transformation taking place in the post and logistics sector, we must not be subject to it but lead it. We need to define the technology which shapes our work.”

Susan Alexander from the Universal Postal Union highlighted opportunities for postal services to diversify offerings such as healthcare delivery. She referenced a project in India: “Most recently, the UPU has teamed up with India Post and The World Health Organization, through its initiative SPECS 2030, pilot several programs to deliver eyeglasses to remote regions as well as raise awareness for eye health. This is a project which we hope will increase the reach of eye care services in other countries as well.”

Cornelia Berger presented an overview of key developments in postal sector work over recent years.

In response to global conflicts affecting workers’ safety, conference delegates endorsed a resolution calling for protection of postal workers’ lives and rights while they perform essential duties. Dave Ward introduced this resolution by stating: “UNI is an organization based on solidarity and cooperation. We say out loud that postal workers are not targets. We will support our brothers and sisters in need.”