The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) took a prominent role at the 4th IndustriALL Global Union Congress in Australia, where nearly 1,000 union representatives convened under the theme “Organizing for a Just Future.” The event focused on strengthening international labor alliances to defend democracy and promote social and economic justice.
IndustriALL Global Union represents 50 million workers in over 130 countries across mining, energy, and manufacturing sectors. Its mission aligns with IAM’s efforts to support fair trade, workplace dignity, and collective bargaining rights globally.
IAM International President Brian Bryant addressed delegates about the negative effects of unfair free trade agreements on workers. Bryant stated: “Our members have paid the price for policies written without their input. If governments are serious about building a fair global economy, they must listen to the people who make these industries run: the workers.”
During the IndustriALL Women’s Conference held alongside the main congress, IAM Human Rights Director Nicole Fears and Winpisinger Center Education Representative Demetress “Dee” Colbert presented details of IAM’s LEADS program. This initiative provides mentorship and leadership development opportunities for women within IAM.
Fears emphasized: “Gender equality strengthens our labor movement. We don’t just pass the torch, we light each other up.” Colbert added: “Regardless of where we come from or how our journeys began, workers around the world often face many of the same challenges. The Congress reinforced our shared purpose and reminded me that our collective strength grows when we learn from one another, stand in solidarity, and continue pushing for justice everywhere.”
Delegates from various countries showed interest in adopting similar programs to advance gender equity within their unions.
IAM delegates—including Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett and International Affairs Director Peter Greenberg—held bilateral meetings with unions from Australia and South Korea. These discussions focused on cooperation in industries such as aerospace and shipbuilding, improving labor standards, addressing unfair trade practices, and responding to global supply chain issues.
Bennett commented: “Behind every aircraft is a highly qualified skilled worker whose struggles are often the same, regardless of their location. Aerospace workers’ fights are intertwined across borders, and our job is to build the partnerships that defend their rights and future.” Greenberg noted: “The challenges our members face are global, and our response must be global as well. When unions stand together across borders, we raise standards for everyone.”
