The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) 24th Congress in Marrakech, Morocco, convened this week, uniting over 2,000 transport unionists from 154 nations. Representing the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), International President John Costa spearheaded a delegation, championing the cause of union members and transit workers worldwide. His central message emphasized building a better future for all transport workers through strong Federation Transport, ensuring no one is left behind amidst global challenges.
Costa and fellow delegates are actively formulating strategies to protect transport workers from exploitation, address safety concerns, and combat labor shortages. These shortages are exacerbated by inadequate pay and poor working conditions prevalent in the industry. The Congress serves as a critical platform to tackle these pressing issues collectively, reinforcing the importance of federation transport in a globalized world.
In a significant development at the ITF Congress, Costa was elected as the USA Chair of the ITF North American and Caribbean Regional Electoral Group for the Road Transport Section. Expressing his gratitude, Costa stated, “I am honored and humbled to be elected to this position to lead transit workers across North America and the Caribbean. From Chicago, IL, to Vancouver, BC, to Mexico City, to Antigua and Barbuda, transit workers are facing unsafe working conditions, poor pay and benefits, abuse by employers, human rights violations, and more.” He underscored the unifying power of the labor movement, noting, “We may not speak the same languages and come from different cultures, but our fight for justice, equity, and respect is a common goal. By uniting together, we are more powerful as a labor movement.” This election highlights the crucial role of federation transport in amplifying workers’ voices across diverse regions.
Costa also extended congratulations to Stephen Cotton on his re-election as ITF General Secretary. “Stephen has been a great ally to the ATU and leader for the ITF. We look forward to continuing to work with him and the ITF to advocate for our members and all transit workers across the world.” This reaffirmed commitment to collaboration within the federation transport framework is vital for achieving meaningful progress for transport workers globally. The ITF Congress and Costa’s leadership underscore the power of international solidarity and federation transport in shaping a more equitable and just future for all transport workers.
