News

Over 600 delegates from across the Americas and beyond are meeting in Medellin to discuss the issues facing the region at the largest trade union gathering in the history of Colombia. Labour leaders discussed plans to build peace and international union solidarity, and faced up to the challenges of the new world of work.

The theme of the conference - “Vamos juntos companeros – con tu quiero y con mi puedo” - urges the labour movement to bring together the activist will to fight with the building of strategic power. UNI Americas will continue to work to protect the right to strike and to grow unions by building power for working people.

UNI General Secretary Philip Jennings said, “The Americas are at risk. From the US to Brazil, Argentina and Colombia, we are seeing a closing of democratic spaces. As unions, we will continue to grow and represent working people for a region based on social inclusion, democracy, labour rights and most importantly, peace.”

“After the breakthrough in peace negotiations in Colombia, this is a chance to write a new chapter in Colombian history. Only with peace can we start to make real changes.”

Adriana Rosenzvaig Regional Secretary of UNI Americas said, “Throughout decades of persecution of trade unions, including assassinations, disappearances and threats, this country has set the example for the region as a tenacious, brave and heroic defender of human rights."

“Hosting our regional conference in Medellin has a symbolic value because of the trade union history of the city, our links with the Escuela Nacional Sindical."