Unifor supports NUMSA

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Unifor recently attended the launch of the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa’s new Research and Policy Institute in Johannesburg, South Africa, showing support for the union’s efforts in the country.

“There is a lot that can be learned, and shared, between Unifor, our South African sisters and brothers and metalworkers unions around the world,” said Unifor researcher Angelo DiCaro, who represented Unifor at the event.

Much of the discussion at a three-day summit that accompanied the institute launch focused on managing the country’s resource wealth and greater industrialization as a way to create good jobs and spur economic development.

“This is not unlike what we are grappling with here in Canada, albeit in very different domestic contexts,” DiCaro said.

The research Institute will deliver policy briefs, analysis and other information to both the NUMSA leadership and its members. It also plans regular events to engage workers in crafting progressive development policies.

The summit included workers from around the world, including Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, France, Australia, the U.S. and others. DiCaro presented a paper on the impact of neoliberalism in Canada, outlining attacks on workers’ rights and livelihoods and proposing alternative economic development initiatives to help repair the damage.