The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) took a prominent role at the 4th IndustriALL Global Union Congress, which convened nearly 1,000 union representatives from various countries. The event, held under the theme “Organizing for a Just Future,” focused on building stronger global labor alliances to support democracy, peace, and social and economic justice.
IndustriALL Global Union represents 50 million workers in 130 countries across mining, energy, and manufacturing sectors. Its goals align with IAM’s advocacy for fair trade, workplace dignity, and collective bargaining rights.
IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed the Congress regarding the negative effects of unfair free trade policies on workers worldwide. 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 discussed the IAM’s LEADS program. This initiative offers mentorship and leadership development opportunities for women in the union.
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 different 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 also met with union leaders from Australia and South Korea. Their discussions covered strategies for improving labor standards in key industries like aerospace and shipbuilding while addressing unfair trade practices and supply chain issues.
Bennett remarked: “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 commented: “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.”
