The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) played a significant role at the 4th IndustriALL Global Union Congress in Australia, which brought together nearly 1,000 union representatives worldwide under the theme “Organizing for a Just Future.” The event focused on building global alliances to support democracy, peace, and social and economic justice for workers.
IndustriALL Global Union represents approximately 50 million workers in 130 countries from the mining, energy, and manufacturing sectors. The organization’s mission aligns with IAM’s efforts to promote fair trade, workplace dignity, and collective bargaining rights.
Brian Bryant, IAM International President, addressed the Congress about the negative effects of unfair free trade policies on workers globally. He 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.”
At the IndustriALL Women’s Conference held alongside the main congress, Nicole Fears, IAM Human Rights Director, and Demetress “Dee” Colbert, Education Representative at IAM Winpisinger Center, presented on the IAM’s LEADS program. This initiative provides mentorship and leadership development opportunities for women in the union.
Fears said: “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 other countries expressed interest in adopting similar programs to promote gender equity within their unions.
IAM delegates—including Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett and International Affairs Director Peter Greenberg—also met with unions from Australia and South Korea to discuss cooperation in key industries such as aerospace and shipbuilding. Their talks focused on raising labor standards, addressing unfair trade practices, and improving conditions along global supply chains.
Bennett noted: “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 commented: “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.”
