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The meeting was focus on the experiences of UNI in general and UNI Graphical in particular being implemented in the framework of different multinational companies.



Leif Mettavainio and Camilla Lundh, representing Grafiska, reported on their experiences in the building of networks and negotiating global agreements. Camilla is a delegate in the former Quebecor plant in Sweden. As such, she actively participated in the discussions carried out in the heart of the European Works Council and the establishment of the network. “It was an extraordinary personal experience,” said Camilla. “We learned to understand each other above and beyond really profound differences in union styles and concepts, and in spite of the fact that we had different points of view, we always acted united,” she highlighted.



Adriana Rosenzvaig reported on the development of other networks and other global contracts already signed or being negotiated by the sector as well as by other sectors organized by UNI Global Union. “In times of crisis, social dialogue is fundamental for companies and unions,” she stated, highlighting that global contracts are an essential tool for companies wanting to ensure that in all their plants, wherever they are located, the human and labor rights of their employees are respected.



Leif stressed that the union movement has an opportunity to act against the negative effects of globalization. “When we sign a global contract, we are creating tools that will help workers in the far flung corners of the planet, but also Swedish workers, since this is a shared struggle for the dignity of all workers, men and women.”



Elander delegates reported on the work they are carrying out to establish the European Works Council and agreed on the need to establish networks that facilitate the exchange of information and knowledge of different experiences.



UNI Graphical has plans to hold an international meeting at the end of January with unions that represent or may represent workers of this company.



Elander has plants in Atlanta, USA; Sao Paulo, Brazil; the United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway, Rumania, Hungary, Poland, Italy, and China, as well as plans to open a new plant in Chennai, India. It has close to 6000 workers throughout the world.

It is a public company, with operations in the areas of digital printing, packaging, personalized information, logistics and services. The company’s Code of Conduct contains explicit references to respect for union rights, such as the right to organize and collective bargaining.







For more information: adriana.rosenzvaig@uniglobalunion.org