The re-election victory of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva marks an important moment for workers in Brazil – and reinforces the significance of social dialogue, democracy and social justice all round the world. For our global trade union movement, it underscores the vital role that organised labour plays in shaping more inclusive societies and advancing a sustainable economic development that works for all.
As one of the world's largest economies and a key player in global transport and logistics, Brazil has a unique capacity to influence labour, social and economic policies far beyond its borders; progress in workers' rights, collective bargaining and social protection in Brazil can contribute to strengthening the global fight against precarious work, inequality and attacks on trade union freedoms.
"The re-election of President Lula sends a powerful message about the ongoing importance of democracy, social dialogue and the collective voice of working people – the people of Brazil have voted to ensure Lula’s mission to secure social justice continues,” said, Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary.
“Brazil also has a strategic role to play in shaping a fairer global economy, and the ITF stands ready to work with our affiliates to advance workers' rights, strengthen collective bargaining and ensure that economic progress delivers benefits for all.”
Lula’s election creates favourable conditions to advance priorities at the heart of the ITF’s global agenda – our ‘six demands’: ensuring safety and health at work; sustainability; corporate accountability throughout global supply chains; workers’ participation in shaping the future of work; securing equality and rights for all transport workers.
"For workers across Brazil and the Americas, this moment represents an opportunity to deepen social dialogue, strengthen collective bargaining and advance policies that promote decent work, social inclusion and economic justice,” said Edgar Díaz, ITF Regional Secretary for the Latin America.
“Brazil will be at the forefront of these discussions throughout the Americas, and the trade union movement remains united in its commitment to defending workers’ rights and building a more equitable future for all."
At a time when workers around the world face significant economic, social and environmental challenges, Brazil has shown that progressive, pro-worker governments are wanted by the many. It now can demonstrate leadership in advancing decent work, democratic participation and a just transition.
“We congratulate our brother and comrade, President Lula, on a historic victory for the working class, a win built in workplaces, in communities, on the streets, that was decisive at the ballot box. It is a decisive defeat for the right-wing forces seeking to undermine the very foundations of our trade union movement,” said ITF Co-President, Paddy Crumlin
“This is a victory for internationalism and for social and economic justice. It proves once again that when workers stand together, organised and united, we win, and we can build the fairer societies that we need all around the world. Now the struggle continues and our movement must mobilise and make sure that we continue to build momentum, not just in Brazil, but across the region and around the world.”
The ITF reaffirms its commitment to working alongside its affiliated unions in Brazil and across the world to strengthen workers' rights, promote international solidarity and advance a future founded on democracy, social justice and decent work for all.
