Fifth World Congress of Trade Unions Meeting in Australia Focuses on the Social Contract

The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) meets every four years to establish the global agenda for over 300 national trade unions.  The conference focused on topics underpinning the new social contract – including workers’ rights, just wages, equality and inclusion, and climate friendly jobs.  The ITUC congress and recently held COP27 cemented the global agenda on a ‘just transition’ for workers impacted by plans to reduce greenhouse emissions and introduce technological change.

In his address to the congress, which met in Melbourne, Australia from November 17-22,  Prime Minister Anthony Albanese drew attention to “those who have an ingrained ideological objection to workers being paid fairly for their contribution”. At the same time, he announced the decision to table ILO Convention 190 in Parliament, the first step to Australia’s ratification of the convention against violence and harassment in the workplace. 

Outlook for employers: The focus on climate friendly job roles and the transition of employees in impacted industries is gaining momentum.  A recent publication from IndustriAll provides unions with a Guide of Practice for building a ‘just transition’ strategy and is an insightful read for all companies embarking on this journey.