“I work in the agricultural sector, the heat in the fields is unbearable and the conditions are very hard. They exploit me and treat me as if I were a machine, not a person. Despite all the effort, the salary is barely enough to cover the basics.” - Bendjy, Haitian migrant

Today, October 7, we are celebrating the International Day for Decent Work. This day reminds us of the importance of ensuring just and dignified working conditions for all workers around the world. Decent work is a fundamental right that we all deserve. It means having a job with just conditions, decent wages, adequate social protection, and a safe and healthy working environment. It is work that respects human dignity and promotes equal opportunity without discrimination.

August 25th is a reminder to the Young Christian Workers of how much the international movement has meant and of the importance of staying organized in a space that allows us to transmit our diverse concerns and life situations.

For thousands of young people who have gone through the YCW at the international level, it means more than just sharing concerns, it is also a place where thousands of young people have been able to find a new meaning to their lives, a movement where we can transmit our dreams and aspirations through collective struggle.

Historically, the International Week of Young Workers is one moment to celebrate our international solidarity and movement identity by demonstrating for our rights, celebrating our international campaigns and actions. This year was the same, the International Week of the Young Workers, organized by the International Young Christian Workers (IYCW), served as a platform for young workers from across the globe to come together online and exchange ideas, experiences, and strategies for addressing key issues such as gender equality, precarious work, unemployment, and informality of work. This year’s week-long event took place from April 25 to May 1, culminating in the celebration of Labor Day on May 1.