Trade unions have the power to bridge between communities

The longstanding vision of the Histadrut for regional cooperation, economic stability, and social justice found a prominent platform in Argentina’s leading independent labour news outlet, Mundo Gremial, which published an exclusive interview with our Director of International Relations, Avital Shapira-Shabirow. Conducted during the 114th International Labour Conference of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Geneva, the feature highlights a fundamental principle of our mission: even amidst deep geopolitical crises, organised labour serves as a vital vehicle for solidarity, dialogue, and long-term peace.

Here, you can read the article published by Mundo Gremial

Building bridges through dignity and shared labour

In the interview, Avital shared that for many years, the Histadrut has advocated for the rights, safety, and economic security of cross-border workers, making this a cornerstone of our trade union work. In the face of immense regional pressures following the tragic events of October 7, 2023, our advocacy for the safeguarding of livelihoods remains steadfast. True security is built from the ground up – by ensuring that fair wages, robust collective agreements, and equal legal protections apply universally to every worker within our economy, regardless of background or nationality.

By operating specialised grievance committees that offer free legal recourse and by providing occupational safety training tailored to Arabic speakers, we actively cultivate an equitable workplace environment. The workplace is not just an economic space; it is a critical venue for fostering mutual understanding and coexistence.

A call for global solidarity

Furthermore, Avital shared about the Histadrut’s position on global and regional solidarity and its international work: Our international engagement reinforces our autonomy and unique position within the global labour movement. As an independent institution driven entirely by working-class ideology, our policies remain distinct from government actions. We continue to urge international trade unions and global federations to foster constructive engagement rather than division, recognising that labour organisations have a historic duty to heal social divides and rebuild damaged social fabrics.

Our enduring commitment to a stable future, grounded in democratic values, human rights, and sustainable coexistence, underscores our ongoing efforts to re-engage in meaningful bilateral dialogue with our regional labour counterparts. In navigating these complex dynamics, the unifying power of trade unionism remains our guiding light:

“Wars divide, trade unions unite. Let us go with peace, let us go with hope, let us go together.”

Director of International Relations, Avital Shapira-Shabirow

The Histadrut remains unyielding in its commitment to protect vulnerable workers and build sustainable pathways toward regional stability and shared prosperity.