Unions are developing novel health, safety and environmental approaches as part of their response to the globalisation of trade and capital. The international union confederation ICFTU, representing 221 union organisations in 148 countries, has created a global union health, safety and environment panel. It has an email-based information exchange and policy development system on health, safety and the environment, covering management approaches, strain injuries, biotechnology, AIDS/HIV, climate change and other issues. Other initiatives range from "cybercampaigns" to international days of action. The sector-based union international trade secretariats (ITSs) have negotiated global trade union recognition agreements including health and safety clauses. Unions are also co-operating internationally outside of formal bipartite agreements. The above strategies have achieved some notable successes in defence of labour, health, safety and environmental standard!
Learning Objectives: By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 1) Describe different approaches that international unions are utilizing to respond to the environmental and health and safety impacts of trade globalisation; 2) Discuss at least two specific initiatives that international trade secretariats are using to exchange information and take action around these issues.
Keywords: Environment, Union
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.