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The largest ever world congress of the ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation) begins tomorrow in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Taking place in Sofia’s National Palace of Culture, the event will bring together almost 2000 people, including staff and participants from 379 trade unions in 116 countries, and is the 43rd world congress in the ITF’s 118 year history.. It is the organisation’s supreme decision making event, at which its affiliated trade unions set the agenda for the next four years, and elect its executive board, president, vice presidents and general secretary.
It is also the first paper-free and fully digital ITF congress, so that even those unions that can’t attend can participate in nine languages via the interactive website at www.itfcongress2014.org.
ITF president Paddy Crumlin explained: “Congress is an integral part of the ITF and the tool that ensures it is fully democratic and accountable. It brings together representatives of the workers who keep the world’s transport systems moving and society functioning and fed. It gives them a voice and the mandate to decide how we will struggle, build and campaign together for the next four years and beyond.”
ITF acting general secretary Steve Cotton added: “The theme of this congress is From global crisis to global justice: transport workers fighting back. This is the place where unions challenge the austerity model, take on the worst employers, and show how equitable and sustainable transport, free from injustice and inequality, is better for everyone.”
ENDS
For more information contact ITF press officer, Sam Dawson.
Direct line: + 44 (0)20 7940 9260.
Email: dawson_sam@itf.org.uk
International Transport Workers' Federation - ITF:
HEAD OFFICE
ITF House, 49 - 60 Borough Road, London SE1 1DS
Tel: + 44 (0) 20 7403 2733
Fax: + 44 (0) 20 7375 7871
Email: mail@itf.org.uk
Web: www.itfglobal.org