UNI Americas women leaders unite in Argentina: driving change with hope and action

The 7th UNI Americas Women’s Regional Conference held in La Falda, Argentina, drew over 180 women union leaders from more than 17 countries. Under the banner of solidarity and action, participants gathered in La Falda to analyze the challenges facing women in the workplace and strategize on breaking barriers to achieve gender equality.

The opening ceremony featured a poignant video showcasing the struggles and triumphs of women unionists around the globe. Keynote speeches underscored the critical role of unions in advancing gender equity.

Theresa Mortimer, outgoing president of UNI Women, reflected on past achievements, particularly the advocacy for the ratification of ILO Convention 190 on violence and harassment in the workplace. “Women have remained united and proactive, ensuring the Convention’s adoption to secure a just society for all,” she said.

Christy Hoffman, General Secretary of UNI Global Union, praised the regional efforts of union women while highlighting persistent workplace injustices. “Many working women face harassment and humiliation,” Hoffman said. “This is why the unionization efforts by women in UNI are so vital – to improve our rights and working conditions. For UNI, women’s issues are not a side topic – they are central to our mission.”

She highlighted UNI’s key priorities: promoting decent work, securing formal employment for women, and pushing for work-life balance. “The road to equity is long, but together, we can achieve the progress and dignity all women deserve,” Hoffman concluded.

Carol Scheffer, President of UNI Women, inspired the audience with a call to action. “Our campaigns, such as the ‘Three Ms,’ have brought workplace issues affecting women to the forefront,” she said. “Women leaders inspire and drive change. Together, we are agents of transformation.”

Verónica Fernández, Head of UNI Equal Opportunities echoed this sentiment, emphasizing collective power. “When our voices unite, we dismantle barriers and shape a fairer future. Let’s keep building networks and fighting for wage equality, better working conditions and zero tolerance for violence,” she declared.

Héctor Daer, President of UNI Americas, highlighted the historical contributions of women to union progress. “Women have paved the way for those who follow. Now, we must protect collective rights, the foundation of workplace equality,” he stated.

Marcio Monzane, Regional Secretary of UNI Americas, acknowledged the significant strides in women’s empowerment. “Over 1,000 women have participated in our training programs, driving progress in formalization, collective bargaining and social justice,” Monzane said. “Combatting inequality starts with gender equality and ensuring women’s leadership in unions.”

The conference featured the presentation of UNI Americas’ Zero Tolerance Protocol, aimed at addressing harassment in all its forms, aligned with ILO Convention 190. Delegates were also presented with a plaque recognizing UNI Americas’ gender equality efforts, awarded by the Government of Córdoba.

As the conference concluded, our message was heard loud and clear: union women are a formidable force for change. With unwavering solidarity and commitment, we continue to fight for a future where gender equality and workplace dignity are non-negotiable.