A Critical Step for Global Labor Movement by Memur-Sen: Global and Regional Issues Discussed at ILC Meeting

ANKARA - The International Labor Confederation (ILC), of which Memur-Sen is one of the founding and most active components, met with the mission of strengthening the global labor movement and discussed the current problems of workers and laborers around the world. The meeting, held online under the chairmanship of Ali Yalçın, President of Memur-Sen and ILC, with the participation of representatives of 33 trade union confederations from 25 countries, once again demonstrated the importance of international solidarity and common sense.

Delivering the opening speech of the meeting, President Ali Yalçın drew attention to the pressure on the labor movement caused by today's global conflicts and geopolitical tensions. "We see the ILC as a vital force for the labor movement to stand together and raise a common voice in the face of global problems," he said, stressing that trade union solidarity is not only economic but also part of the struggle for peace and justice. Yalçın stated that humanitarian crises such as breaking the blockade on Gaza should be the main agenda of the entire labor movement.

The executive board meeting discussed not only global conflicts, but also regional and local issues in detail. Updates from member confederations were shared on situations in hotspots such as the Iran-Israel tension, the conflict on the Cambodia-Thailand border, and the ongoing labor protests in Indonesia. In addition, representatives from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Thailand, Portugal and Indonesia shared their valuable experiences on social dialogue processes in their countries and their trade union activities in the face of economic hardship. These exchanges showed that the ILC has created a network of knowledge and experience for laborers in different geographies.

Taking the floor at the meeting, Hamza Öksüz, Deputy President of Memur-Sen and ILC Secretary General, outlined the confederation's road map for the future. Öksüz emphasized transparency and cooperation, saying, "Every step to be taken by the ILC will be shaped by the common mind and board decisions of our member confederations." Giving information about the international programs, regional meetings and training activities planned to be organized in the coming period, Öksüz stated that ILC will take a more active role in the international arena in the coming period.

At the end of the meeting, all participants agreed on the need to further grow the trade union movement in line with the principles of "rights, justice and solidarity". The ILC reaffirmed that it will continue to be the voice of working people in different parts of the world and take a common stand against global challenges.