PSI Latest News

Get Up Stand Up campaign

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 06:04:46 -0800

The Get Up Stand Up Campaign aims to bring about change in how Government responds to the crisis we face. So far we have little evidence of any fresh thinking, no evidence that fairness and justice are at the heart of that response. We believe there is a better, fairer way...

Unions in talks on alternatives to pay cuts

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 06:01:14 -0800

Talks between public service unions and employer bodies, aimed at exploring an alternative to further public service pay cuts, began on 28th October and are expected to continue over the next week or so...

Public sector workers to rally over Government cuts

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:55:29 -0800

Rallies organised by the Northern Ireland Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions will be held across Northern Ireland Friday 6 November to protest planned further cuts to the public sector and to call for further job creation policies. The simultaneous rallies will be held in Derry, Omagh, Coleraine, Craigavon, Magherafelt, Ballymena, Enniskillen, Armagh, Newry and Belfast...

Guatemala: Another Trade Union Leader Assassinated

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:21:42 -0800

PSI has joined the ITUC in vigourously condemning the assassination of a trade union leader and calls on the Guatemalan authorities to take immediate measures to ensure that those responsible, at every level, for the killing of Víctor Gálvez be identified, arrested, tried and sentenced.

What do Europeans think about their working conditions?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 21:56:00 -0800

The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) has just released the results of a Europe-wide opinion poll on safety and health at work. According to the findings, there is widespread concern among European citizens that the current economic crisis could adversely affect health and safety at work, putting at risk the improvements that they report having seen over the last five years. Many Europeans also feel well informed about occupational safety and health and consider it an important factor when choosing a new job...

Japanese firefighters may receive broader labour rights

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:27:41 -0800

PSI welcomes the announcement by the Japanese Democratic Party government, elected on 30 August, that Japanese firefighters may at long last receive basic labour rights. At a meeting with PSI affiliate the All-Japan Prefectural and Municipal Workers Union (Jichiro), on 28th October, Internal Affairs and Communications Minister Kazuhiro Haraguchi said he had instructed his ministry to consider the matter of granting fire department workers the right of association.

ACTRAV Helpdesk on Financial and Economic Crisis

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:17:00 -0800

The ACTRAV Helpdesk offers advice and information and makes available workable tools and materials to assist trade unions regarding how they manage their responses to the financial and economic crisis and uphold workers’ rights...

Brazilian government organizes conference to promote universal health systems

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:59:43 -0800

Health for all In the face of the continued challenge of global policies aimed at the commercialization, privatization and fragmentation of health care and health promotion, and the new challenges posed by the economic crisis, the Ministry of Health of Brazil has launched an iniative to bring together all those around the world commited to universal access to health care and social security. The first step will be the holding of the first world conference on the development of universal health and social security systems. The conference is scheduled for the 22nd to the 26th of March 2010 in Brazilia. The organizers explain that "the Conference aims at structuring political agendas that would take into consideration the universality of the right to social security in the national and international arenas." Their goal is to launch "an international agenda that would create the conditions for effective assurance of the human rights...

Global Forum on Migration and Development

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 08:18:24 -0800

PSI representatives are busy at Athens where the Global Forum on Migration and Development will continue until 5 November. PSI has the largest union contingent. Please check this page regularly for the latest information from the GFMD.

Job fears 'cause sleepless nights'

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:38:00 -0800

Teachers, civil servants, nurses and other public sector workers are losing sleep because of fears over pay and jobs, according to new research...

The Ethics of Capitalism

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:34:00 -0800

The EU economy has not been shielded against the effects of such profound crises, now being dragged into its deepest and most widespread post-war recession. With unemployment expected to rise to 27 million in 2010...

Economics for Everyone: A Short Guide to Capitalism

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:43:00 -0800

"Economics is too important to be left to economists", says Jim Stanford an economist working for the Canadian Auto Workers. His new book, "Economics for Everyone", is a concise and readable account, providing non specialist readers with all the information they need to understand how capitalism works ... and how it doesn't...

International Standards of Accounting and Reporting (ISAR)

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:28:00 -0800

We are in the aftermath of a global financial crisis that nearly brought the international financial system to a grinding halt. The impact of the crisis has been colossal. The financial crisis has put unprecedented focus on accounting and reporting standards. The attention paid to this subject reflects a growing recognition of the importance of a sound accounting and reporting system for global financial and economic stability...

EU unveils proposals for derivatives

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 23:13:00 -0700

Traders will be obliged to clear "standardised" swap contracts centrally and face additional capital charges if they deal derivatives between themselves bilaterally, under proposals planned by the European Union. The European Commission unveiled measures it plans to implement next year to "strengthen the safety of derivatives markets" - in particular, the large but less transparent over-the-counter market...

PSI demands justice for world’s 200 million migrants

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 09:25:17 -0700

At the Civil Society Days of the Third Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD) on 2-5 November 2009, PSI will call for wider access to quality public services, decent work, and economic policies that are fair to both workers and development efforts in their countries. On 4-5 November, government representatives will meet in an Interstate Dialogue to discuss and debate proposals. PSI has issued a press release and a commentary by general secretary Peter Waldorff.

Argentina: 50,000 health workers demonstrate

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:30:01 -0700

The Trade Union Federation of Health Professionals (FESPROSA) from Argentina organised a national strike on 28 October 2009, mobilising over 50,000 doctors and health professionals from more than 200 hospitals and health centres.

US: Obama declares Influenza A H1N1 a national emergency

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:29:10 -0700

On 23 October, US President Obama declared Influenza A H1N1 a national emergency, allowing hospitals and local governments to set up alternate sites for treatment and triage procedures if needed to handle any surge of patients. Influenza is now widespread in 46 states, millions of people in the United States have already been affected, and unofficial figures count 1,000 deaths and 20,000 hospitalisations due to H1N1.

Turkey: Arrested trade unionist on trial

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:56:59 -0700

PSI has written to the Turkish government denouncing Ms Seher Tümer’s detention and calling for her immediate release. Ms Tümer was arrested shortly after taking part in the celebration of International Women’s Day on 8 March and the Newroz Spring festival on 22 March. She has also been active in denouncing a high mortality rate at Zekai Tahir Burak, the Women’s Health Research and Education Hospital. PSI believes that her arrest is linked to these activities. She has now spent almost seven months in a high security prison with limited access to lawyers.

World Women’s Conference: Gender Equality, a Key to Tackling the Crisis

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 04:04:19 -0700

The first ITUC World Women’s Conference, held under the heading "Decent Work, Decent Life for Women: Trade Unions Taking the Lead for Economic and Social Justice & Equality" left no doubt as to the particular impact of the crisis on women. Having come together to examine the repercussions of the global jobs crisis on women and to map out international trade union action to improve job security, pay and working conditions for women, the delegates highlighted the urgent need to place the gender dimension high on the agenda of the international community.

New ACTRAV website

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 07:55:05 -0700

The mandate of the Bureau for Workers' Activities (ACTRAV) of the the International Labour Organisation (ILO) is to strengthen trade unions and enable them to play their role effectively in protecting workers' rights and interests. The new ACTRAV website offers lots of information on how ACTRAV functions, including a list of upcoming meetings and resources. There is also a link to the ACTRAV Helpdesk on the Financial and Economic Crisis. See http://www.ilo.org/workers.

More than 500Km covered in protest at dismissals

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 03:40:40 -0700

The protest March in support of the dismissed Kent-As workers is now drawing to a close. After more than 30 days of marching, covering close to 600km, the workers plan to occupy a square in Ankara until such time as they get their jobs back. PSI European Secretary, Jürgen Buxbaum, joined the march on October 10th and spoke on behalf of PSI and the EPSU expressing solidarity and support with the workers.

Decent Work, Decent Life for Women

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 01:38:54 -0700

450 women trade union delegates from 100 countries will gather in Brussels on 19-21 October, for the 1st ITUC World Women's Conference to analyse the impacts of the global jobs crisis on women and map out international trade union action to improve women’s job security, pay and conditions. "Women all over the world are suffering the terrible effects of the global economic crisis. Shameful financial practices caused this crisis, not women workers, and as we come together for this first ITUC Women’s Conference, it’s time for women workers to be heard and their demands acted upon.", said ITUC Women’s Committee Chair Diana Holland, who will preside over the Conference.

Mexican Government Seizes Power Plants, Liquidates Dissident Union

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:28:06 -0700

Mexican Federal Police have seized the plants of the Central Light and Power Company of Mexico, which provides electricity to Mexico City and several states in central Mexico. The government of President Felipe Calderón announced that the company would be liquidated and all its approximately 45,000 workers fired, which would mean the destruction of the Mexican Electrical Workers Union (SME). SME has asked for international solidarity in resisting the government liquidation of their company, the termination of the workers, and thus the destruction of the union.

Stop Puerto Rico's George Bush!

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 04:53:10 -0700

200,000 people will be taking to the streets today in a general strike to peacefully protest the planned cuts in essential public services. Luis Fortuño, Puerto Rico's Governor, is threatening to charge the protesters with terrorism. SEIU, PSI's affiliate has launched a campaign in support of the Puerto Rico workers and is calling for letters to be sent to US Congress members asking them to hold hearings on Governor Luis Fortuño's actions.

Vacancy for Regional Secretary for the Asia-Pacific region

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 06:09:59 -0700

Public Services International is looking for a new Regional Secretary for the Asia-Pacific region. The Regional Secretary will be responsible for developing and implementing PSI’s strategic objectives in a strong relationship with the region’s affiliated unions. The deadline for applications is 30 November 2009.

No to nuclear weapons !

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:54:27 -0700

PSI supports the global campaign for an end to nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. PSI believes that the world needs to take urgent action to stop the spread of nuclear weapons, and to make the world free of nuclear weapons, as part of the overall drive for worldwide peace and the transfer of military spending to socially-useful ends. PSI urges affiliates to sign the on-line petition to Mr Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nations.

Romanian public sector workers strikes and protests

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:53:45 -0700

Public sector workers in Romania held strikes and demonstrations on 5th and 7th October to protest against new salary legislation imposed by the government.

Public Services: Transformation not cuts

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:32:43 -0700

PSI affiliate IMPACT in Ireland has launched a campaign for a transformation in public service delivery to preserve the quality and range of public services while budgets decline. The campaign aims to transform public services bringing about changes in work practices, identifying and cutting waste, and vastly increased productivity and mobility to ensure that services are maintained.

Guatemala: National electricity company’s management refuses to sign collective agreement with workers’ union

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 02:20:39 -0700

The management of the Guatemalan national electricity company (INDE) has refused to sign the collective agreement with the workers’ union STINDE. This is the first time that such a situation has arisen under the presidency of Alvaro Colom. PSI has sent a letter to the President and the General Secretary of INDE’s Steering Council urging them to respect the principle of freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, in application of ILO Conventions 87 and 98, which have been ratified by Guatemala. PSI is also requesting its affiliates to send similar letters of protest using the available on-line form.

All men should swear....

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 01:42:49 -0700

Australian men in particular have been invited by the White Ribbon Foundation to swear to put an end to violence against women. The petition can also be signed by non-australian men and women.

750,000 Public employees on strike!

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 07:33:40 -0700

Hundreds of thousands of health, education and state administration employees, many of whom are members of PSI affiliates, went on strike last Monday in protest of a new law on salaries, dismissals and enforced, no-pay ten-day leaves.

Chile: Problems With Core Labour Standards

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 06:14:26 -0700

A new report by the ITUC on core labour standards in Chile, published to coincide with the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) review of its trade policies, has found that current legislation limits the right to organise and collective bargaining.

Flash Mobs: A new form of industrial action

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 05:48:37 -0700

Ver.di, one of Germany's largest unions and a PSI affiliate, is using Flash Mobs as a method to fight labour disputes. The protest had been organised as a result of disagreements over pay and conditions between Verdi and retail sector bosses in the states of Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia and Saxony. "With this new form of strike we wanted to draw attention to our problems. But we also wanted to let our colleagues in other sales areas know about our problems," union secretary Doris Finke told local newspaper Mitteldeutsche Zeitung.

Puerto Rico police forcefully remove workers during peaceful protest

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 03:09:24 -0700

Peaceful demonstrators, mostly laid-off workers and union leaders who had chained themselves to the gates of La Fortalez, the official estate of Puerto Rican Governor Luis Fortuño, were violently removed by SWAT team agents and arrested, despite assurances that they would leave peacefully and not resist arrest. The act of civil disobedience was led by members of the Puerto Rican Workers union, SEIU Local 1996SPT, in reaction to the Governor's announcement on Friday 25 September, to lay off 16,970 government employees. The disproportionate show of force against demonstrators included hitting people with billyclubs and those affected by the police brutality included workers as well as members of the press.

World Day for Decent Work 7 October

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 03:03:34 -0700

7 October is the World Day for Decent Work (WDDW), organised by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). PSI and other global union federations have chosen to use the day to highlight the growth in precarious work and the resulting erosion of workers' and trade unions' rights.

AFSCME's Plan: Health Care for America

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 06:01:08 -0700

AFSCME members have urged fundamental changes in America’s health care system. At recent International Union Conventions, AFSCME members have developed a health care reform blueprint and an Rx for the Health Care Crisis. In the broadest sense, there are five basic elements to our plan: 1. Guarantee everyone a choice of plans, including allowing people to keep what they have now. Many AFSCME members are satisfied with their current plans, but they are concerned about high costs and the continuing erosion of benefits. The union’s position is that we need more choices, not less, and that creation of a public plan option will provide everyone with a high quality option that will help maintain affordability while not forcing a one size fits all approach. 2. Require employers to pay their fair share. Our health care system is based on employer provided benefits. Yet some employers are shirking their responsibility. AFSCME...

SEIU: Public Health Insurance Option is Needed For US Health Reform

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:53:53 -0700

PLEASE, SENATE FINANCE DEMOCRATS:STOP HIDING BEHIND REPUBLICANS ANNA BURGER, Secreary-Treasurer SEIU In just a few hours, the Senate Finance Committee has an opportunity to pick up where the House of Representatives and Senate HELP Committee began, and include in their bill a strong public health insurance option. Only one thing stands in their way: themselves. Since the beginning of this debate, President Obama and Senator Baucus have done everything possible to keep Republicans at the table. It turns out -- not surprisingly -- the majority of Republicans don’t care about changing our healthcare system. They’re content to do the bidding of Big Insurance by spreading half-truths to score political points. So it’s time for Democrats to make a decision: Are you going to vote to support a public plan, which has the vast support of Democrats, and I might add, of the majority of Americans? Are you going to stand...

AFT: Where we stand … healthcare reform

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:02:00 -0700

AFT's position on healthcare reform

Randi Weingarten, President, American Federation of Teachers The time to reform our healthcare system is now. Many Americans are uninsured or struggle to pay the soaring costs of healthcare. Reform is key to regaining economic strength, especially in these difficult times. Rising healthcare costs strain family budgets, burden businesses of all sizes, squeeze state and federal budgets, and are delaying America’s economic recovery. Reform can enhance choice and competition in care, while also helping to create jobs, spur innovation, and make an important and timely investment in America. The AFT strongly supports healthcare reform that will guarantee high-quality, affordable healthcare for all. Successful reform will: Establish an effective and comprehensive public plan option that will guarantee high-quality, affordable coverage. Americans need the assurance and security of coverage that a public health insurance plan option can offer. A public plan option will make private health insurance...

Victory in Korea

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 02:45:29 -0700

PSI is pleased to announce the successful merger of its local affiliate, the Korean Government Employees Union (KGEU), with two other government workers' unions by direct votes of all three unions on 23 September. The Korean government is criticising the vote and does not accept the merger. PSI had previously written a letter in protest at the government's interference with the planned ballot.

A user-friendly projects handbook for trade unionists

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:25:17 -0700

A writing team of GUF representatives including PSI have produced a user-friendly Projects Handbook for Trade Unionists. It contains instructions and suggestions on how to develop, implement, monitor and evaluate projects and includes the reporting guidelines of FNV, LO/TCO and SASK.

International support for Puerto Rico public employees delays dismissal plans

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 02:59:34 -0700

The dismissals of more than 40,000 public employees, due to take place on 1st July, have so far not happened and PSI believes that this is largely due to the massive support in favour of these workers, including the big public demonstration organised early June and led in part by PSI's affiliate SEIU. More than 2000 letters of support were received through the Labourstart campaign, it has now been suspended pending further developments. PSI will be following the case very closely and will follow up on the complaint filed by Puerto Rican trade unions with the ILO Freedom of Association Committee.

Indonesia: PLN Union rejects new electricity law

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 08:06:50 -0700

The Indonesian House of Representatives again passed its new controversial electricity law on 8 September, to allow the free market economy to come into play in the power sector and to fully privatise power generation, distribution and supply. Over 2000 workers, members of the PLN union, took part in a rally to reject the law.

Vacancy for Regional Secretary for Africa and Arab countries

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 07:52:41 -0700

PSI is looking for a new Regional Secretary for Africa and the Arab Countries. The Regional Secretary will develop the regional work of PSI and give Africa and the Arab Countries a stronger voice. The closing date for applications is 15 October 2009.

Turkish municipal workers march for 500km in protest of dismissals

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 04:09:23 -0700

PSI is calling on its affiliates and members of the international community to send messages of support to members of GENEL-Is, who embarked on a long protest march from Izmir to Ankara on 16 September. The march is in protest of the dismissals of 276 municipal workers following the contracting out of the municipal services.

Argentinean health workers on strike on 23 September

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 02:47:01 -0700

Faced with growing tensions due to inadequate salaries and precarious work for thousands of health workers, the national council of FESPROSA (Federación Sindical de Profesionales de la Salud) has decided to launch a strike in the Argentinean health sector on 23rd September.

UN Leadership Forum on Climate Change

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 07:42:29 -0700

PSI General Secretary Peter Waldorff is in New York to participate in the UN Leadership Forum on Climate Change on 22 September. PSI has published a statement on climate change that urges governments to agree in Copenhagen on an ambitious and equitable agreement that would keep global temperature rise to below 2°C. PSI recognises that a major strengthening of public services is essential in order to contribute to fair and efficient climate policies.

South Korea: Government Interference in unions' ballot

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 04:01:37 -0700

PSI has learnt with great concern of the South Korean's government interference in the direct ballot undertaken by the Korean Government Employees Union (KGEU), Korean Democratic Government Employees Union (KDGEU) and Court Government Employees’ Union (CGEU), scheduled for 21st and 22 September 2009, which would enable them to decide on merging the three unions and accessing the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions. PSI has sent a letter of protest to the Minister of Public Administration and Security and is calling on its affiliates to send similar letters of protest.

Global Unions statement to IFI meetings

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 05:53:58 -0700

The ITUC, the Global Union Federations and TUAC have prepared a statement for the 2009 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. These meetings will be held in Istanbul on 6 and 7 October. The statement proposes that the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) must emphasize the creation of decent work as the key to economic recovery.

NUPGE wants respirators for health care workers

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 05:52:22 -0700

PSI affiliate National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) in Canada says all health care workers exposed to a pandemic flu virus like H1N1 should be given fit-tested NIOSH approved N95 respirators to protect them on the job.

NEHAWU leads women empowerment

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:36:26 -0700

PSI's South African affiliate, the National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (NEHAWU), congratulates more than 200 women shop-stewards and members who will be graduating at the University of Western Cape in Cape Town this Wednesday, 16 September 2009.

The Global Economic and Financial Crisis and its impact on youth

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 01:52:07 -0700

Workers are paying the heaviest cost for a crisis far beyond their control. The impact of the crisis will go further than job and income losses, causing the incidence of informal work and working poverty to rise. Young people, migrant and women workers are the most vulnerable to the current downturn and are all faced with considerable difficulties in integrating in today’s labour market. This trend stands to be exacerbated by the global crisis and if viable solutions are not found, personal development and future employment prospects are threatened for millions of young people.

Finnish Workers in state-owned enterprises STOP on 11 September

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:00:37 -0700

Employees of state-owned enterprises will stop work for six hours today, Friday 11 September. Destia’s, Raskone’s, Labtium’s and Finavia’s employees, members of PSI affiliate JHL, are stopping work in protest against the proposed selling of company shares.

Swaziland: Day of Global Action for Democracy

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 03:37:10 -0700

As COSATU and other civil societies launch the Day of Global Action for Democracy in Swaziland, PSI has written in support of its affiliates strongly protesting the planned Public Service Bill. The new bill says it will be an offence for a public servant to be ‘visibly associated’ with a political formation or organisation. It will also be an offence to be a member of a political party. This would make it practically impossible for public servants to exercise their right to organize themselves politically or to publicly express views of a political nature.

Appointment of new PSI Deputy General Secretary

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 01:23:42 -0700

PSI has appointed its new Deputy General Secretary. Alexandre Kamarotos will start work at the PSI headquarters on 1st October 2009.

ILO investigates Zimbabwe trade union rights violations

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:32:09 -0700

A three-member team of International Labour Organisation (ILO) officials spent two weeks in Zimbabwe to probe alleged violations of trade union rights by the Zimbabwean government. The team is led by Raymond Ranjeva, a senior judge with the International Court of Justice and Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry set up by the ILO Governing Body to investigate the complaints concerning the observance the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Conventions.

Young Workers: A Lost Decade

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 07:04:09 -0700

A recent nationwide survey finds the deterioriation of young workers' economic situation over the last 10 years alarming. The survey follows up on a similar survey the AFL-CIO (USA)conducted in 1999.

PSI Australian affiliates commemorate Equal Pay Day

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 06:17:07 -0700

In Australia, Equal Pay Day 2009 took place on 1 September. This date illustrates the number of extra days many women have to work after the end of the financial year to earn the same as men because women on average earn 17.2 percent less than men.

Celebration of International Youth Day in India

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 03:28:56 -0700

The All India Association of Inspectors and Assistant Superintendants of Post Offices (AIAIASP) commemorated International Youth Day 2009 with the seminar under the theme of Trade Union Rights and ILO Mechanisms.

Women in Leadership

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 03:19:51 -0700

Australia's first female Deputy Prime Minister, the Honourable Julia Gillard, addresses students at the Lady Shri Ram College for Women in New Delhi, India. "You are in the fortunate position of being able to make your voice count as you, along with your contemporaries around the world, continue the drive for equality and address the big questions facing your generation," says Gillard.

South African 'strike' troops sacked

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 01:28:12 -0700

Nearly 700 soldiers from the South African defence force have been sent letters of dismissal following last week's strike action.

Venezuela: Trade union leaders unfairly dismissed

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:02:38 -0700

PSI is asking affiliates to support the Venezualan judicial workers union, Unitario Organizado Nacional de Trabajadores de la Administración de Justicia, who are facing serious violations of trade union and collective bargaining rights. The judicial authorities of Venezuela have not respected the collective agreement signed with the trade union and several trade union leaders have been unfairly dismissed.

Fight for equal pay: Merkel

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 02:44:47 -0700

Germany's first female leader said in an interview with feminist magazine Emma ahead of a general election next month that the pay gap between the sexes was a 'real problem'.

Young people, the financial crisis and trade unions

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:21:33 -0700

The current global economic crisis has hit people the world over, resulting in massive lay-offs and causing increasing unemployment. The ILO has predicted that global unemployment could increase to 239 million people this year with an estimated 100 million in Asia. Young people are the most affected and are 2.8 times more likely to be unemployed than adults.

Challenges in organising young workers

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:20:51 -0700

Unions believe that young workers are very important for the organisation movement in the future. Trade unions are powerful organisations and have a key role to play in shaping the present and future of the global economy. However, the traditional role of trade unions to promote unionism and encourage young people to join a union often limit unions in reaching young people.

Vacancy for Regional Secretary for Africa and Arab countries

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 07:27:21 -0700

Decent work for domestic workers - to include workers delivering health, social care and municipal services in a domestic setting?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 05:43:38 -0700

This is a follow-up to the recent circular sent to PSI affiliates about the ILO questionnaire on Decent work for domestic workers. It is important that affiliates ensure their views on the preparation of an ILO Convention on this matter are fully taken into account.

NHS under fire in the US: UNISON counter-attacks

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 08:58:30 -0700

Obama's health reform plan has come under fire from the anti-reform campaigners who have chosen the UK National Health Service (NHS) as the target of their criticisms. PSI affiliate UNISON has sent an "NHS fact sheet" to its sister unions in the United States. The fact sheet offers an impressive list of facts and figures showing that the NHS provides a comprehensive range of services, free at the point of need and accessible to all and providing peace of mind to millions, regardless of their income or employment circumstances.

Vacancy for Communications Officer

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 07:30:35 -0700

More than ever the world needs to hear a strong voice promoting quality public services as a means to overcome the current global crisis. Public Services International (PSI) is looking for a dynamic and innovative Communications Officer who can develop and implement its communications strategy. Candidates should send their application to PSI General Secretary, Peter Waldorff, by 1st September 2009.

Protests continue in Honduras

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:26:16 -0700

Nearly two months after the coup d’état in Honduras on 28 June, trade unionists, popular movements and civil society organisations are continuing to defy the de facto regime and the army with demonstrations, protest marches and strikes, in the face of vicious repression.

Launch of Campaign on International Solidarity Levy

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 08:01:54 -0700

PSI, BWI and UNI held a joint meeting on 11-12 August 2009 in Jakarta in order to launch a campaign for an International Solidarity Levy (ISL). The ISL could serve as an effective financial regulatory mechanism in ensuring a democratic global governance of the international financial market, and would go a long way in helping to attain the Millennium Development Goals.

Poll shows Canadians overwhelmingly support public health care

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:02:22 -0700

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) is trying to persuade Canadians that their public health care system should be privatised, but a new poll conducted by the Toronto-based Nanos Research points to overwhelming support - 86.2 percent - for strengthening public health care rather than expanding for-profit services.

ASU launches human rights petition to outlaw the death penalty

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 09:01:27 -0700

PSI affiliate the Australian Services Union (ASU) has launched a petition calling for the national outlawing of capital punishment to protect Australians both at home and abroad from the death penalty.

12 August International Youth Day

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 05:52:04 -0700

The theme for International Youth Day 2009 is "More jobs, better jobs for young workers!" PSI is taking the opportunity to call on young workers to join and get active in the trade union movement and on the trade union movement to reach out to young workers. The views, ideas and participation of young workers are vital to meeting the most pressing challenges of today’s globalised world, including precarious work, rising unemployment and increasing poverty. PSI is working with young workers at a regional, sub-regional and national levels to find innovative ways for them to participate in trade union activities.

New website database offers comprehensive WTO tariff information

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 08:23:43 -0700

Comprehensive information on customs duties is now available via the WTO website through a new database, the WTO Tariff Download Facility. Users can now search for members' customs duty rates, as actually charged as well as legally bound maximums, and in many cases imports, down to a high level of detail. See: http://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news09_e/tar_09jul09_e.htm

UK: Most public sector workers lack knowledge about their pensions

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 07:54:33 -0700

Recent research shows that less than a third of public sector workers in the UK know the value of their final pensionThe survey by pension advisory and management specialist Hymans Robertson found that just 29.7% of 1,809 public sector workers polled said they knew the value of their final pension. One-third of those asked said they were unhappy with the information they received on their pension schemes, rising to 42% for those working in the National Health Service (NHS).

Women’s Working Group on Financing for Development (WWG on FfD): responses to the economic crisis

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 05:21:14 -0700

A call for structural, sustainable, gender equitable and rights based responses to the global financial and economic crisis.The working group is an alliance of women’s organisations and networks that advocate for the advancement of gender equality, women’s empowerment and human rights in UN processes related to FfD and the global financial and economic crisis.

South Africa municipal workers need your support

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 03:16:22 -0700

Municipal workers in South Africa have been on strike since 27th July. They are striking for a wage increase of 15%, housing subsidies and that the 25% of vacant posts in the sector be filled. PSI affiliate, the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) has informed us that marches have taken place in all the major cities as well as in many smaller municipalities. SAMWU have asked for messages of support from PSI affiliates that will be sent to the provincial strike committees around the country.

"Trade Unionists Together for LGBT Rights!"

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 03:11:20 -0700

The joint PSI/EI Publication on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered workers has been selected for the Copenhagen Catalogue of Good Practices. The Copenhagen Catalogue is a collation of 24 examples of great initiatives and projects from all around the world focusing on LGBT human rights at a local, national or regional/international level.

"Trade Unionists Together for LGBT Rights!"

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 03:09:16 -0700

Vacancy for Communication Officer

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 03:46:18 -0700

Conclusions of the ILO Committee on the Application of Standards

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 02:21:05 -0700

The Committee on the Application of Standards, which has the overall responsibility for considering the extent to which international labour standards are being implemented and reporting thereon to the International Labour Conference, met during the 98th Session of the ILO Labour Conference and considered 25 individual cases relating to the application of various Conventions. PSI is pleased to note some of the very strong conclusions of the Committee on the application of Convention 87 on the Right to Freedom of Association.

Australian union calls on local councils to provide greater free access to water facilities

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 02:15:30 -0700

The Australian Services Union (ASU), a PSI affiliate, has called for local councils throughout the country to provide greater public access to free water facilities to encourage less dependence on bottled water. The provision of water through retail sales outlets not only adversely affects the environment through the pollution caused by the manufacture and transportation of the plastic bottles, it can also represent a loss for the community where the water is produced.

Health Reform in the US

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 06:38:14 -0700

President Obama has explained his health reform plan during a meeting in Virginia on 1st July. Obama explained that the present health system in the US has become untenable. In the past nine years, premiums have risen three times faster than wages, he said. Even though he recognised that the costs of reform will be high, the costs of inaction would be even greater. If nothing is done now, ten years from now one out of every five dollars earned will be spent on health care.

Airport screeners a step closer to bargaining rights

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 05:38:24 -0700

American unions that organise airport luggage screeners are celebrating forthcoming new legislation to give them collective bargaining rights. The screeners, or transport security officers (TSOs) already have the right to join unions, and many are members of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), a PSI affiliate, or the National Treasury Employees Union. But until now, those unions have not had the right to bargain on their members' behalf.

Day of General Discussion on Migrant Domestic Workers

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:27:07 -0700

On Wednesday 14 October 2009, the Committee on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families will hold a Day of General Discussion in Geneva focusing on “Protecting the Rights of Migrant Domestic Workers”.

Durban Review Conference outcome document

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 02:45:06 -0700

The Review Conference served as a catalyst to fulfilling the promises of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action agreed at the 2001 World Conference through reinvigorated actions, initiatives and practical solutions. Combating racism against migrants was one of the issues addressed by the Review Conference. Issues related to the enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights are particularly crucial for many migrants. Very often, they are confronted with severe discrimination in housing, education, health, work or social security.

Durban Review Conference outcome document

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 02:44:19 -0700

Bosnia-Herzegovina: Successful negotiations lead to signed agreement

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 04:00:46 -0700

13 July 2009 - After 30 days of intense negotiations, the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina accepted all trade union demands, and an agreement was signed between the Government and the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Earlier this month, PSI had sent a strongly worded letter in support of its affiliates, protesting the government's proposal for an Intervention law which would determine the salaries and other benefits for workers that are employed in institutions in cantons, cities and boroughs of the country.

UK: Gender pay gap mystery

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:46:01 -0700

Women are earning more than men in some public sector organisations - but only in the lower-paid grades, according to new research by the BBC.

UK: Gender pay gap mystery

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:45:44 -0700

Women are earning more than men in some public sector organisations - but only in the lower-paid grades, according to new research by the BBC.

PSI influential on trade and labour rights in the ASEAN region

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 06:21:57 -0700

The Australian Parliament has just released a major report on its relations with ASEAN based on a major enquiry into Australia’s relationships with ASEAN, covering many issues including human rights issues. PSI affiliates were represented at the enquiry by David Carey from the CPSU-SPSF and Paul Slape from the ASU who compiled the submission and evidence, and appeared in person as witnesses before the Committee. Their submission centred on the need for a connection between Australian financial and trade relations with ASEAN countries and their commitment to human rights and labour rights. They agreed that PSI should not separate its commitment to human rights from trading and financial relations and, in fact, should insist upon those rights being observed being contingent on trading agreements and financial assistance.

South Africa: Trade Unions for Women and Women for Trade Unions

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 03:53:38 -0700

The recent COSATU National Gender Conference reaffirmed its vision of building a movemement for women, a trade union movement that plays a crucial role in empowering women and in challenging the unequal power relations between men and women. The conference underline the urgent need to rebuild gender activism and raise the voices of women within the union movement, to ensure that unions are able to genuinely advance the interests of women workers.

Leaving South Africa to work in a foreign country?

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 03:31:25 -0700

Because of the nature of the work that health professionals do, their services or expertise are in demand globally and they encounter fewer hurdles in changing to a new environment. Globalisation is offering increased opportunities for skilled people to migrate but there are also many challenges to look out for. The purpose of this pamphlet prepared by PSI affiliates in South Africa is to guide health workers to make an informed decision to relocate to work in another country.

Leaving South Africa to work in a foreign country?

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 03:31:20 -0700

Decent Work for domestic workers: a long way to go

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 02:49:38 -0700

The ILO and other women’s advocacy groups consider domestic work to be among the most precarious of occupations. The present economic downturn and jobs crisis sweeping the world is likely to aggravate those vulnerabilities depicted in a report to the 2009 International Labour Conference taking stock of gender equality in the world of work.

Decent Work for domestic workers: a long way to go

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 02:48:17 -0700

Thinking of migrating?

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 04:06:58 -0700

PSI affiliates in Oceania have jointly produced an information passport for the benefit of those persons who are intending to seek employment outside Fiji. The passport can help in making informed choices for temporary or permanent migration and provides vital information on contacts and places where individuals can get help regarding employment contracts and their Rights as Migrant Workers in a new country .

Thinking of migrating?

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 04:03:24 -0700

USA: Appointment of White House Advisor on Violence Against Women

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 03:15:04 -0700

Vice President Biden, the author of the landmark Violence Against Women Act, announced the appointment of Lynn Rosenthal as the new White House Advisor on Violence Against Women. Ms. Rosenthal is one of the nation’s foremost experts in domestic violence policy, and has worked at the local, state and national levels to create an environment where violence against women is not ignored and perpetrators are held accountable. This is a newly created position at the White House, dedicated specifically to advising the President and Vice President on domestic violence and sexual assault issues.

Gender equality at the heart of decent work

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 03:14:12 -0700

Equality for women and men in the world of work is universally recognised as a core value of the ILO. The Committee on Gender Equality which met during the ILO’s 98th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), in June 2009, in Geneva (Switzerland) came to a number of conclusions in its report. Even if real progress has been made in gender equality since 1985 (improved national policies and legislative framework for gender equality, better monitoring and enforcement of laws, increased awareness of workers’ rights), gender pay gaps persist and women are still disproportionally represented among the poor and in low-paying unskilled jobs. Gender equality is now accepted as a necessity for sustainable development and poverty reduction for women and men, improving living standards for all.