Global trade unions discuss the transformation of work

On the occasion of the 120th anniversary of the Italian General Confederation of Labour (CGIL), Italy’s main trade union confederation, local and international experts and representatives discussed the transformation of work and the role of trade union representation in addressing today’s major challenges.

At the centre of the discussion held in the Italian city of Milan, was the need to govern change without leaving working people on their own. From artificial intelligence to the energy transition, the debate focused on building a new development model capable of bringing together collective bargaining, the protection of rights in global value chains and quality employment, while recognising peace as an essential condition for social justice.

The relationship between peace, rights and democracy was one of the key themes of the day. In his remarks, Salvatore Marra, Head of International and European Policy at CGIL, described war as “incompatible not only with social progress, but with democracy itself.”

This theme was echoed by Luc Triangle, General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation, who stressed the role of the trade union movement in defending democratic values: “We are fighting for democracy, we are fighting for democratic values.” In Europe, this challenge also depends on the ability of workers and trade unions to act together. As Esther Lynch, General Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation, recalled: “By working together at European level, we can win legislation.”

Founded in 1906 to bring together workers from different trades, territories and conditions, the Confederation today renews that commitment in the face of technological, economic and social change, starting from the concrete lives of working people, from the rights that must be defended and those still to be won. Democracy and rights are also measured through the concrete quality of work, especially for younger generations. Nicolas Schmit, President of the Foundation for European Progressive Studies, drew attention to the precariousness affecting a significant share of young Italians: “Thirty-nine percent of young Italians are in very unstable, insecure jobs.”

It is also in light of these transformations that CGIL chose to reflect on its 120-year history. Founded in 1906 to bring together workers from different trades, territories and conditions, the Confederation today renews that commitment in the face of technological, economic and social change, starting from the concrete lives of working people, from the rights that must be defended and those still to be won.

The celebrations continued on September 30 at Teatro alla Scala in Milan, in the presence of the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, with an event dedicated to the collective memory of CGIL’s 120-year history through art and theatre.