Global union network tackles logistics industry

11 November 2005

Unions across the world last week met in Washington DC, US, to consolidate a global union network focusing on organising the world’s four largest logistics firms.

Representatives from 21 unions representing 12 countries assembled at the meeting on 1-3 November, organised by the ITF in cooperation with Union Network International and hosted by ITF affiliate the Teamsters. They discussed developing a global organising strategy targeted at the “big four” - United Parcel Service (UPS), DHL, FedEx and TNT Logistics - and set up a research committee to gather information to back up the strategy.

Participants also highlighted the issue of competition between the major delivery companies, which is the driving force behind increased work intensity and an ever greater stress on flexible working practices. They heard how a company’s good industrial relations in one country did not necessarily mean the same in another. In some countries the companies put on a union-friendly face while in others they victimised union leaders and set up “yellow” unions. Most of these companies have signed up to standards of corporate social responsibility, yet some of the same appear ready to violate workers’ rights and launch attacks on union organising.

In addition, the meeting revealed how union strength within the companies varied. Some unions had strong memberships, while others were still trying to build their strength. Unions that were strong in their own country had seen companies move work to other countries where workers were less well protected. The key area of discussion concerned developing a strategic approach to direct practical forms of support to where they would have most effect.

“There is a strong need to increase the number of organised workplaces in the global systems of these companies. The emphasis now is on organising,” said Stuart Howard, ITF Assistant General Secretary.

The meeting sent messages of support to Teamster members in San Antonio, Texas, in dispute with DHL and to union leaders in India who have been victimised by the same company.

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