7 October, 2016With music, dance and concrete proposals youth participated at IndustriALL´s 2nd Congress in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
"Youth is a priority. We want them to be union leaders of the present and the future," said former IndustriALL general secretary Jyrki Raina, addressing the 1,500 Congress delegates.
On 3 October, 80 young trade unionists from Latin America, Germany, Russia, Japan and Austria made a surprise entrance into the Congress hall with tambourines, banners and flags.
The following day they took to the stage to discuss proposals including the need to provide training to young people, creating spaces for youth in the structures of trade unions, and the creation of affirmative and specific youth policies.
"Yesterday we sang and danced. Today, the youth is on the podium willing to create policies and make important decisions" said Sascha Ernszt from Austria to the whole audience.
"We need the support of all of you because united and together we are stronger. Viva Youth in Action! And peace for Colombia!” said Edwin Palma from Colombia, who consequently received the applause of those present.