Many other events and collaborations made possible by Congress also contributed to the IMF's mission.

The IMF Women's Conference, held two days prior to Congress, focused on the impact of precarious work on the lives of women workers and their families. The Conference also evaluated the impact of the Congress 2005 decision to mandate the inclusion of women on the IMF Executive Committee.

A series of side events on shipbreaking, organizing workers in export processing zones and climate change gave delegates to the Congress an opportunity to explore in detail some of the specific challenges facing metalworkers globally.

Congress delegates also participated in a range of social events that took place around the Congress, including a women's dinner and an opening reception and ceremony, culminating in a special closing party celebrating the contributions made by many to the work of the IMF and this particular Congress.

For a full round up of Congress news, go to:
www.imfmetal.org/congress2009