Trade unions make a difference in the lives of women, and women make a difference in the work of trade unions. From Berlin to Bogotá, from Bangkok to Baghdad and from Boston to Brazzaville, women work every day, contributing to the economic vitality of society as a whole.
Throughout the world, women are the hardest hit by the global economic crisis. Most work in low-skill and low-wage jobs. They are paid less than men in nearly every country, and they work longer hours. Their work is often dangerous, and many women risk their lives every time they go to their jobs.
Rising social inequality both between and within nations reinforces the need to eliminate vast disparities.
Specifically, dynamic measures that target women are needed to redress existing discrimination and change attitudes and conditions. The AFL-CIO therefore focuses our work on major areas in which women’s rights must be defended and enhanced worldwide, including:
- Freedom of association—the right to organize;
- Education and training;
- Employment and equal pay;
- Social protection with particular focus on maternity protection and access to health care;
- Family responsibilities;
- Harassment and violence against women; and
- Full participation of women in union structures and operation.
As we commemorate the 101st International Women’s Day on March 8, 2009, the AFL-CIO reaffirms its commitment to the principles of equality and fairness for working women in the United States and around the globe.