Trade union leaders from G20 countries and beyond have launched their engagement with this year’s G20 Presidency.
The event included the South African Minister of Labour, who emphasised the importance of strong participation by the Labour 20 (L20) in G20 processes. Also present were a representative of the South African President’ office at the G20 and the ILO Deputy-Director General.
This year’s G20 focus on solidarity, equality and sustainability marks an important moment to build on advances made during the Brazilian Presidency and ensure the G20 delivers for workers worldwide.
Luc Triangle, ITUC General Secretary, stated: “The global trade union movement is ready, as always, to work with the Presidency of the G20 to make real, positive change for working people. The Brazilian government showed what is possible and this South African Presidency is well placed to continue this good work. The principles of solidarity, equality and sustainability are central to trade unions’ vision for a fairer, more inclusive, and more democratic global economy.”
TUAC General Secretary Veronica Nilsson added: “Twenty years after its creation, the G20 stands at a crossroads at a time when international cooperation is being fundamentally challenged. Governments must honour their commitments and take decisive action to fight inequality, advance decent work and ensure a just transition for all workers globally.”
Throughout this year’s G20, the L20 aims to:
- Consolidate progress on living wages, social protection and Just Transition.
- Advance concrete commitments on labour rights, collective bargaining and formalising of the informal economy.
- Promote sustainable industrial policies to support developing countries in the green transition.
- Ensure inclusive digital futures through investments in digital infrastructure and skills, alongside strong regulation of digital labour platforms.
- Reform international finance to secure funding for decent jobs, social protection and climate action, including a UN tax convention and debt relief for developing countries.
The L20 is committed to working with the South African Presidency to advance these priorities and build a fairer and more sustainable global economy.
