New Year 2025: Message of Maria Helena Andre to Unions

Dear colleagues, dear friends,

As yet another turbulent year on the global stage has come to a close, we are looking ahead with some uncertainty. 

The recent period of economic instability and geo-political tensions have greatly impacted the lives and livelihoods of workers throughout the world, and despite some positive developments in some regions, the level of uncertainty in which direction the world is moving will likely prevail throughout 2025. 

Certainly, the impacts of technological change, demographic shifts, the evolving nature of globalization and the devastating effects of climate change will continue to fundamentally impact our economies, our societies, and the nature of work itself. 

These changes will further impact an ever changing world order, which over the past 70 years was built on liberalism, multilateralism and a set of human rights considered universal.

However we see that despite the many global challenges, multilateralism in particular is being eroded by the growing trend of many countries to look inward. 

We remain firm in our conviction that multilateralism has been, and should remain, the vehicle towards addressing challenges that are greater than one country, or one organisation. 

The role of the international labour movement in that regards is more important now than ever, particularly as the geopolitical landscape is becoming increasingly hostile, and the ideals of democracy as a catalyst for social cohesion, peace and prosperity are being increasingly challenged.

We will continue providing a platform for a discussion among trade unions, but also with governments, with employers’ organisations and academia on what a new social contract would entail both at regional and national level, as well as for the multilateral system as a whole. 

We will continue to support unions in their important work to support workers in vulnerable situations, such as those in the informal economy or the many young workers either engaged in precarious employment or falling out of labour markets altogether.

The looming threat of climate change will require a fundamental reorganisation of our economies, where the involvement of unions and social dialogue are a crucial element to ensure that any transition to a green economy is just and benefits all in society. 

Dear colleagues, 

the bottom line is that as the world is changing at such a fast pace, trade unions have to change with it. 

ACTRAV stands ready to support unions to transform, both in their advocacy work as well as internally, to ensure that they are truly the voice of all workers. 

As we enter the new year, let’s embrace the challenges ahead with optimism and continue collaboration. 

Looking forward for 2025, we will have two important events in which your active participation and contributions are essential.

Firstly, the 113th session of the International Labour Conference to be held in June 2025 with critical discussions around the Committee of Application of Standards, the transition to formal economy and two standard-setting committees on the platform economy and biological hazards.

Second, the World Social Summit for Development to be held in November 2025 will be an important step establishing a direction for the world of work for the latter half of this decade and post 2030. 

In facing multiple challenges such as geopolitical tensions, the urgency of climate change and the growing impact of AI and new technologies in the world work, I am confident that trade unions have the capacity to adapt and remain the driving force in the defence of workers rights around the world. 

From the ILO’s, ACTRAV stand ready to continue to support workers’ organizations to promote and implement decent work for all. 

Let’s make 2025 a year of solidarity, collaboration and achievements as we work towards our shared vision anchored on social justice.

Together, we will make this year truly remarkable!

Thank you!