European Unions Call for More Democracy and Influence
28. March 2025European Trade Unions Call for More Democracy and Influence – UNI Europa Conference in Belfast 2025
Over 600 trade union delegates from across Europe gathered in Belfast at the end of March to celebrate the 25th anniversary of UNI Europa – and to jointly chart a path towards a fairer future for European wage earners.
The three-day conference was held under the slogan “Real Influence, Higher Wages” and was marked by solidarity, a spirit of struggle, and a clear vision from trade unions regarding technological changes, rights, and democratic participation.
Day One – Solidarity and New Directions
The opening ceremony began with encouraging words from Northern Irish leaders and representatives of the Belfast city authorities, who emphasized the importance of the labour movement in building a just society. Numerous trade union leaders from across Europe shared how unions are restructuring their operations, engaging new members, and advancing into new sectors, ranging from finance to the video game industry.
Panel discussions highlighted the importance of adaptability – how unions in Austria, Finland, Poland, and Romania have achieved historic victories through strategic organizing and strong membership. A new international center for responsible corporate human rights policy was also introduced, with a focus on freedom of association and collective bargaining rights.
Day Two – The Demand for Influence and Justice
The main topic of the second day centered on collective bargaining, reforms to public procurement, and the real value of wage earners’ work. In Belgium, the discussion focused on reducing the workweek, while in Ireland the first “Progress Awards” were presented for achievements in collective bargaining. Ver.di in Germany received the award for a campaign that secured a 16% wage increase and over 20,000 new members.
UNI Europa presented the campaign “No Public Procurement Without a Collective Agreement”, which received broad support – including from Members of the European Parliament. It was condemned that companies violating workers’ rights receive public funding.
In discussions on digital transformation and employee welfare, a clear demand emerged: collective agreements must reflect the new reality – including artificial intelligence, remote work, and mental health. The Northern Ireland Minister for the Economy emphasized decent jobs as a key measure of a healthy economy.
Day Three – Defending Democracy and the Future of Work
The final day focused on the risks and opportunities associated with artificial intelligence. Union leaders from various countries expressed concern about a lack of transparency, increased pressure, and a democratic deficit following digital transformation. Binding European legislation and human oversight of AI use were demanded.
Examples were presented from creative industries and the financial sector where changes have occurred without promises of new jobs or improved rights being fulfilled. Representatives of wage earners stressed: AI should support workers, not undermine them.
At the close of the conference, resolutions were passed against far-right forces and in defense of democracy. Peter Hellberg and Oliver Roethig were re-elected as President and Regional Secretary of UNI Europa, and Lieveke Norga was elected as First Vice President. With this leadership and clear direction, UNI Europa aims to strengthen the rights and influence of wage earners leading up to the next conference in 2030.
United Trade Unions – A Stronger Europe
The message of the conference was clear: Wage earners across Europe have the right to real influence, higher wages, and fair and humane decisions about the future of work. These goals can only be achieved through solidarity, organizing, and a powerful labour movement ready to face both political and technological challenges in the years to come.