Democracy and Trade Union Rights are under attack.
More than just a fight
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Democracy thrives when workers have a voice. Protecting labor rights means safeguarding economic justice, freedom, and human dignity. We are facing a large scale assault on workers’ rights. A reactionary wave that seeks to dismantle everything we’ve fought for. The only way forward is through union strength and collective action.
What’s at Stake?
Basic labor rights
Protections won through decades of struggle are being rolled back.
Dangerous working conditions
Deregulation and cost-cutting measures put workers’ health and safety at risk.
Democracy itself at risk
Strong unions mean strong democracies. When labor rights are eroded, so is the power of the people.
Take a look at our active campaigns
ILO calls for Action on Myanmar, advances independent monitoring mechanism
The discussion took place against the backdrop of continuing attacks on workers’ rights, including violations of freedom of association, forced labour, and violence against workers, trade unionists, and civilians since the military coup in February 2021. The CAS noted that significant gaps remain in the implementation of the COI recommendations and called for concrete measures to address persistent violations of fundamental labour rights.
Global Solidarity Webinar: Stories of Resistance from Cuba and Panama
As part of the mobilisation toward the 6th BWI World Congress in São Paulo in November 2026, BWI will host a Global Solidarity Webinar: “Stories of Resistance from Cuba and Panama” on Thursday, 19 March 2026, from 13:00 to 14:30 (CET / Geneva). The event will take place on Zoom with interpretation in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
A day of trade union solidarity with Ukraine
Throughout this brutal war, BWI and its affiliates have stood shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine and with PROFBUD, delivering humanitarian aid, skills training, and strengthening union capacity. Through the PROFBUD Skills Hubs, hundreds of workers gained the qualifications needed to rebuild their country, positioning the union as an important force in Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Find all resources regarding trade union rights and democracy
Here, you'll find policy documents, reports, and key resources on defending trade union rights and democracy all over the world
Adapting to the Heat – 2025 Edition
A comprehensive report on existing global responses to protect workers in construction, building materials, wood, and forestry industries from rising temperatures (June 2025).
TOO HOT TO WORK
Eyes on the campaign goals focusing on extreme heat and its impact on workers, its global mitigation, and BWI actions toward COP30 and BWI 6th World Congress.
Protecting Migrant Workers in an Overheating Planet
A policy paper serving as a comprehensive guide on how governments and global industry leaders can implement measures to safeguard the rights of migrant workers in the face of escalating climate impacts (November 2023).
HEAT UP WORKERS RIGHTS MEDIA RESOURCES
Posters, factsheets, videos, etc...
