"A trade union guide to globalisation" launched

ICFTU launches new book - "A trade union guide to globalisation"

Brussels, 26 November 2004 (ICFTU online): The role of trade unions in the globalisation process is the centrepiece of a new ICFTU publication, launched in the run-up to the organisation's 18th World Congress (5- 10 December in Miyazaki, Japan).

Designed as a guide for trade unionists working at national or international level, the "trade union guide to globalisation" shows how globalisation affects the day-to-day work of all trade unions. It examines how trade unionists can advocate issues related to workers' rights at the international level, for example in their contacts with international organisations such as the World Bank, the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO). The book also considers the relationship between trade unions and multinational enterprises, including in a new chapter on the social responsibilities of business.

This guide assesses the impact of globalisation on a variety of issues, such as on the public sector, on HIV-AIDS and on gender issues, citing trade union campaigns on these questions. Other issues of importance dealt with in the publication include the importance of the fundamental ILO conventions, the emergence of framework agreements between companies and Global Union Federations, the massive rights violations in Burma and issues related to pension funds.

In addition, the book contains practical information on how trade unions can effectively research companies and provides useful contact details. Its overall aim is to encourage practical international solidarity and thereby build a stronger international trade union movement.

For a short introduction to the guide, including an overview of the most relevant issues, click here: http://www.icftu.org/displaydocument.asp?Index=991220864

To read or download the document, in full or chapter-by-chapter, or to order a copy, click here: http://www.icftu.org/pubs/globalisation/

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