ITUC debates global justice with political and civil society representatives
The ITUC Congress’s third day of deliberation in Vancouver, BC, Canada, included a discussion with three well-known political and civil society leaders about alliances trade unions should develop with other sectors with which the labour movement shares common goals.
In support of Global Social Justice and World Public Services Day: ″Global Justice Now!” say 1500 rally activists
About 1,500 trade union activists called on world leaders to move towards global justice at a rally held outside the Vancouver Convention Centre today. Delegates and guests to the ITUC Congress were joined by many local Canadian trade unionists, who together called for in-depth reform of the global financial system, including the introduction of a financial transaction tax. Rally speakers from all five continents also emphasised the critical role that public services play in our societies, and cheered in support of World Public Services Day, which is celebrated on June 23 every year. As Mody Guiro of the CNTS Senegal said: “Trade unions want strong public services at the service of the people and social security for all.”
ITUC Congress debates global employment crisis and the call for stronger regulations of the financial sector
As the ITUC’s Congress moved into its second day, the state of the world economy and the global employment crisis continued to be heavily debated. Leaders of some important international organizations were invited to take part in this debate. First out was Helen Clark, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme. Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark became the first woman to lead the UNDP in April 2009.
The ITUC – representing workers in the globalised economy
ITUC General Secretary Guy Ryder today presented the theme report of the second ITUC World Congress “Now the People – From the Crisis to Global Justice”. Silence fell over the packed plenary room at the Vancouver Convention Centre as Guy Ryder reflected on the dramatic changes that had taken place since the creation of the ITUC barely four years ago.
“O siem!” Congress delegates honoured with vibrant aboriginal welcome
The Second World Congress of the International Trade Union Confederation was launched against the backdrop of the steep coastal mountains which frame Vancouver’s industrial harbour front, a location rich in cultural and labour history. The opening session featured some of Canada’s finest aboriginal artists, including Inuit throat singing and intricate hoop dancing.