~On 20 March 2019, 12 trade unions from across Europe came together to launch the Orpea Solidarity Network.
The launch follows the Global UNICARE conference’s resolution to organise workers in key multinational companies, strengthen trade union alliances and work toward a global social dialogue in Orpea.
The network builds on the recent successes of organising new unions in Orpea in the Czech Republic and Poland. These new unions represent a historic development for workers in the private care sector.
At the meeting, participants discussed and identified common issues workers and their unions faced. It was agreed to launch a joint survey and a newsletter. Participants unanimously voted to establish the Orpea Solidarity Network which aims to engage in joint campaigning and worker organising, the exchange of views, and learning from each others’ experiences.
Oliver Roethig, Regional Secretary of UNI Europa, said:
“Orpea is a company that operates across borders. We need to ensure that management does not play off workers in different countries. That is why we are building a strong trade union alliance, bringing together unions from all over Europe. Our answer is to stand united and pool our strengths for a common purpose.
“Quality jobs for Orpea workers.”
For more information contact Mark Bergfeld, Director of UNICARE mark.bergfeld@uniglobalunion.org
