On 25 November 2024, during EFFAT Congress Week, young trade unionists from across Europe gathered at in Valencia, to chart the future of EFFAT youth representation.
Organized with the support of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, the EFFAT Youth Event highlighted the power of collective action to tackle challenges facing young workers across Europe.
Following the opening remarks by Kristjan Bragason, General Secretary of EFFAT, and Claire Trevor, President of the Youth Committee, discussions turned to the broader political vision for EFFAT. Enrico Somaglia, Deputy General Secretary, laid out the strategic priorities, emphasizing youth empowerment in unions as a cornerstone of EFFAT vision.
During the meeting, the nomination of the new EFFAT Youth Bureau leadership was officially confirmed. In their new role they will be tasked to design the strategies to tackle emerging challenges, from precarious employment to digital transformation in the workplace.
The event welcomed insights from the IUF Young Workers Committee, represented by its President, Uros Milivojevic, and Jonathan Johansson, Young Workers Coordinator. They presented a roadmap for 2025-2029, designed to ensure young workers have a stronger voice in shaping policies that impact their future.
On behalf of the ETUC Youth Committee, Tea Jarc, Confederal Secretary of ETUC, outlined the committee’s Action Plan and its focus on trade union renewal. Her sessions highlighted the importance of addressing declining union memberships by engaging young workers through innovative campaigns and advocacy.
Attendees contributed ideas for the 2025-2029 roadmap, emphasizing priorities such as climate justice, equitable wages, and protections for gig economy workers
In his first address as the new President of the Youth Committee, Istvan Imre (Unite the Union) expressed gratitude to his peers and reiterated the importance of collective effort. He encouraged young unionists to remain steadfast in their fight for workers’ rights, both within and beyond EFFAT’s sectors.
The EFFAT Youth Event reinforced the critical role of youth in the trade union movement. With fresh leadership and an ambitious roadmap, young unionists are prepared to fight forward for fair working conditions, social justice, and a better working condition for all workers in Europe.
#FightingForward
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