Brussels, Belgium — 1–12 May 2025 — The International Young Christian Workers (IYCW) celebrated its centenary under the theme “United in Dignity, Together in Action,” marking 100 years of unwavering commitment to the dignity and rights of young workers across the globe.
From May 1 to 12, over 100 YCW representatives from every continent convened in Brussels, the birthplace of the movement founded by Joseph Cardijn. Delegates came from as far as Australia and India, Argentina and Egypt, Japan and Brazil, to Germany, Ghana, Mexico, Thailand, Quebec, and beyond. The centenary celebrations served not only as a time of remembrance but also as a platform for renewal and global solidarity.
A Movement Rooted in Symbolism and Struggle
The celebrations officially opened on 1 May, International Workers' Day, with a public demonstration in collaboration with Wallonia-Brussels YCW. Together with trade unions, including Belgium’s Christian Labour Movement (MOC), and civil society partners, the movement amplified the voices and aspirations of young workers.
Later that day, hundreds gathered for a spiritual celebration at the Church of Laeken—where Cardijn is buried. Monsignor Jean-Pierre Delville, Bishop of Liège, remarked, “Today, this passage of scripture is being fulfilled,”honouring the YCW’s transformation from a local Belgian initiative into a global force for workers’ dignity. The evening concluded with the opening of a public exhibition tracing the life of Cardijn and the history of the YCW—linking past generations with the present.
Addressing Global Challenges Through Collective Dialogue
On 2 May, a public forum at the Destelheide Centre in Dworp gathered international delegates, former YCW members, and key partners. The lively and inclusive debates addressed some of the most pressing global challenges: the rise of far-right ideologies and how to resist them; the widespread denial of migrants’ rights; precarity in the informal economy; persistent gender inequalities; and the urgent need for a just social and ecological transition.
A particularly poignant moment came during discussions on migration. Many African YCW members, despite their active involvement and preparation, were denied visas to attend the event. This exclusion was seen as a stark reminder of global inequities and systemic discrimination. Their absence strengthened calls for global citizenship rooted in justice and equality.
Still, the forum proved fruitful. Concrete international action strategies emerged—centered on solidarity, youth mobilisation, and the defence of human rights.
Celebrating Youth Engagement and Cultural Exchange
In Saint-Trond on 3rd and 4th May, the KAJ/YCW hosted a dynamic youth festival featuring music, workshops, and political dialogue in a festive and empowering atmosphere. One highlight was the Quebec YCW’s screening of its full-length documentary—a compelling testament to the enduring activism of young workers.
Looking Ahead: Strategy and Vision
While the public events were vital, internal planning sessions held in Haltern, Germany, from 6 to 7 May, provided space for deep reflection on the current challenges that the movement are facing right now. Delegates reviewed progress on the 2022–2026 program and began preparing for the IYCW International Council 2026. These sessions emphasized intergenerational dialogue, creative thinking, and international collaboration.
In every encounter—from strategy discussions to street marches—the same conclusion emerged: the YCW’s mission is not just alive; it is urgently needed in today’s world.
A Centenary of Purpose and Renewal
The centenary was more than a celebration—it was a call to action. It brought together generations and geographies in solidarity and vision. As one delegate said, “This is not just the memory of a movement—it’s the movement of our memory into action.”
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