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27 May, 2025On 27-29 April, the IndustriALL Global Union MENA oil and gas union network met in Istanbul, Türkiye, with the participation of unions from Iraq, Bahrain, Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon, Palestine and Türkiye.
The trade unionists discussed several issues, from Just Transition and occupational health and safety, to social dialogue and organizing in global supply chains. A methodology and framework on the pillars of union power in the oil and gas sector in the Middle East and North Africa were presented. The unions also presented their action plans for multinational companies.
The network's meeting coincided with the World day for safety and health at work, 28 April. The network issued a statement, Safety first, emphasizing the importance of a strong commitment to protecting lives, preserving the working environment and promoting a culture of safety. The network also called for the implementation of best practices and international standards in occupational health and safety, particularly Conventions 155 and 170 on chemicals.
As the sector is experiencing changes due to climate change and the energy transition, Just Transition was one of the most important topics of discussion. The network issued a statement emphasizing the link between a Just Transition and social justice. This requires placing workers' rights and protection from unemployment and marginalization at the forefront of any energy transition plan. The network called for dialogue between the social partners, including trade unions, at national, sectoral and regional levels, to discuss the impact of the energy transition on employment, and explore alternatives and guarantees to preserve workers' rights and jobs.
Ahmed Kamel, MENA IndustriALL regional secretary, said:
"Trade unions play an important role in raising awareness about the implications of the energy transition and climate change in the region, especially in countries and locations where this crucial debate has not yet begun."
Süleyman Akyüz, Petrol-İş, president said:
“The sector is experiencing a challenging period, both politically and economically, affecting workers and unions in the region. Therefore, strengthening solidarity between trade unions in Türkiye and the region can help win the trade union struggle.”
Kemal Özkan, IndustriALL assistant general secretary, said:
"Trade union struggle is important for achieving a just transition. It is necessary to decarbonize for the safety of the planet and communities, but not at the expense of workers' interests. Trade unions in the region must intensify networking and coordination."
The network meetings included separate meetings of trade union councils and networks of a number of multinational companies operating in the region, including Vivo energy, TotalEnergies, Shell, and Eni. The main trade union demands focused on deepening social dialogue about Just Transition, improving safety and health, FoA, implementing global framework agreements, and extending health coverage to retirees.