Sweden’s Socialist Prime Minister, Stefan Löfven, addressed the UNI World Congress via video message bringing a message of solidarity and unity to the Liverpool.
Löfven, a former welder and trade union activist who rose to become chairman of the trade union IF Metall, chose the anthem of Liverpool’s world-famous football team, “You’ll never walk alone”, as the theme of his speech to echo its trade union sentiment.
Löfven described how the song serves to sum up why trade unions exist, as when workers join forces and stand up for each other – leaving no worker left behind – success can be achieved.
This strong and united voice of services workers made possible through UNI Global Union’s direction, Löfven emphasised, has achieved numerous global agreements, promoted social dialogue worldwide and fought for, and continues to fight for, a fair and sustainable global economy.
“The strong message of “You’ll never walk alone” travels from continent to continent, country to country, worker to worker,” Löfven explained. “With the power of unity, we can shape our future. We will keep making it happen together!”
Löfven also thanked the leadership, energy and passion of the outgoing General Secretary, Philip Jennings, and wished him all the very best for his retirement. Löfven is looking forward to working with UNI’s new General Secretary, Christy Hoffman, and witnessing this new chapter of trade unionism.
