Intergenerational solidarity

Despite all the attempts to stop the people of Brazil voting freely, democracy and social progress have won over the far-right, neo-fascist, authoritarian and violently populist policies of the previous President. Social justice and protection of human rights, a new and fairer global economic model, climate and digital just transitions, decent work and an end to precariousness, accessible and adequate social protection for all: this is what the election of Lula will bring to Brazil, Latin America and the rest of the world.

Italian trade unionists have linked up with Libera, the organisation established in 1995 to bring together all sectors of society to combat the Italian mafias.

Several generations of trade union activists, members and their families came together for the NSZZ Solidarność ‘Solidarity Picnic’ in May, at the Borek Leisure Centre in Bochnia, near Krakow. About 1,200 participants of every age enjoyed artistic performances, cabarets and sports competitions. A group of animators was on hand to entertain the children, who also took advantage of a huge playground, inflatable boats, zip lines by the lake and horse rides.

A framework agreement on active ageing between the Maltese General Workers’ Union and the Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry adopts an intergenerational approach to ensure a healthy, safe and productive working environment.

Trade unions in Croatia have collected more than 600,000 signatures on a petition supporting their demand for a referendum on the age of retirement.

An innovative ‘generation pact’ in the new collective agreement between Dutch unions FNV and CNV and healthcare provider Fokus allows for working hours to be transferred from older to newer employees, while safeguarding pension rights. Fokus provides care for people with disabilities, enabling them to live normally in their own homes. The 1-year agreement, which came into force on 1 January 2018, offers its 2,400 employees a wage increase of 2.8%.