The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) took a prominent role at the 4th IndustriALL Global Union Congress, held in Australia. The event brought together nearly 1,000 union representatives from around the world under the theme “Organizing for a Just Future.” The main focus was on building stronger global labor alliances to support democracy, peace, and social and economic justice for workers.
IndustriALL Global Union represents about 50 million workers in 130 countries across mining, energy, and manufacturing sectors. Its mission aligns with IAM’s ongoing efforts to promote fair trade, workplace dignity, and collective bargaining rights internationally.
IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed attendees regarding the negative effects of unfair free trade policies on workers globally. Bryant stated: “Our members have paid the price for policies written without their input. If governments are serious about building a fair global economy, they must listen to the people who make these industries run: the workers.”
At the IndustriALL Women’s Conference, IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears and Winpisinger Center Education Representative Demetress “Dee” Colbert presented details about IAM’s LEADS program. This initiative focuses on mentorship, education, and leadership development for women within IAM.
Fears said: “Gender equality strengthens our labor movement. We don’t just pass the torch, we light each other up.”
Colbert added: “Regardless of where we come from or how our journeys began, workers around the world often face many of the same challenges. The Congress reinforced our shared purpose and reminded me that our collective strength grows when we learn from one another, stand in solidarity, and continue pushing for justice everywhere.”
Delegates from other countries showed interest in adopting similar programs to promote gender equity within their unions.
IAM delegates such as Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett and International Affairs Director Peter Greenberg met with union counterparts from Australia and South Korea. These discussions focused on improving labor standards in key industries like aerospace and shipbuilding while addressing issues related to unfair trade practices and global supply chain challenges.
Bennett commented: “Behind every aircraft is a highly qualified skilled worker whose struggles are often the same, regardless of their location. Aerospace workers’ fights are intertwined across borders, and our job is to build the partnerships that defend their rights and future.”
Greenberg said: “The challenges our members face are global, and our response must be global as well. When unions stand together across borders, we raise standards for everyone.”
