Ei-iE

Representatives of teachers’ unions from around the world make significant progress towards adopting a collective policy document at EI’s Annual Development Cooperation meeting in Brussels, Belgium, from 18-19 November.

Over the course of the two-day meeting, participants tackled the issue of effectively evaluating union development solidarity programmes, with a presentation from Erik Kijne, from the Project Cycle Management Group, a network organisation which brings together highly experienced and qualified independent process consultants, trainers and moderators from different countries and regions.

Representatives of EI affiliate members also reported on their union experiences towards organising in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. A range of case studies analysing regional trends, similarities, differences, contradictions, and patterns were also presented.

The draft policy paper that was reviewed is a clear signal of intent that solidarity is at the core of the teaching profession and educators in general, and the work of EI in particular. The revised draft policy document takes into account diverse forms of cooperation, be it North-South, South-South or North-North.

The draft policy document now reads: ‘Solidarity constitutes one of the main principles of the trade union movement. The relations and interactions inherent within the trade union movement are recognised as one of the most powerful precursors to social justice. Solidarity is expressed by creating equal opportunities for not only trade union members, but for all individuals and groups everywhere. Solidarity recognises our colleagues and comrades as equals. Exchange and interchange signify a relationship of equals, a cornerstone of social justice.’