The best way to counter the rise of the far-right is to improve the lives of working people, trade unions told progressive political leaders today at a gathering of progressives from around the world. Ensuring every worker can afford what is needed for a decent life and secure a hopeful future for themselves and their families must be a top priority.

At the trade union assembly held at the margins of the Global Progressive Forum, trade union leaders and representatives gathered in Barcelona to set out a path to defeat the far-right through real and positive change in workers’ lives.

The far-right thrives on “misinformation, insecurity, division and distrust” driven by austerity policies, precarious work and attacks on trade unions which have created growing economic inequality. But as the declaration put forward by trade unions in Barcelona points out: “The far-right does not aim at challenging the unfair economic system, but at reinforcing it, in service of the tech CEOs and richest individuals whose corporate power increasingly shapes political decisions.”

This concentration of wealth and power is fuelling a broader crisis of democracy, where the interests of the few override the needs of the many. Research shows that far-right politicians in the European Parliament consistently vote against the interests of working people despite claiming to stand-up for them. 

Real solutions

That’s why democratic and progressive politicians must rebuild trust by delivering real solutions to working people’s problems. 

The declaration states:

“To counter the rise of the far-right, governments must improve working people’s lives: through better and more secure jobs, fair and living wages and dignified living standards, strong public services, an industrial policy that delivers quality jobs in every sector and in every region.

“Where workers have quality jobs, fair wages and conditions, strong rights and trade union representation, democracy is stronger. Where public services are robust and universal, social cohesion grows. Where exploitation is tackled, division loses ground. Where investments for social and economic progress are delivered, trust in a fair future for the many is strengthened.”

Spain is showing this path works, building a strong and sustainable economy based on higher wages, quality jobs, workers' rights and investments, together with decisive actions to tackle the cost of living crisis. This shows that policies with a strong social dimension are essential to economic progress.

This is backed-up by a major study carried out by the Hans Böckler Foundation that workers who are dissatisfied with their working conditions, who are not well paid and have little say at work are more likely to have negative attitudes towards democracy. In contrast, those with good working conditions are more likely to trust democracy and public institutions.

Esther Lynch, ETUC General Secretary, said:

“Working people need a project of hope. That means real improvements people can feel now: being able to afford a home, earn a decent wage and have security at work. It also means building a future people can believe in. When workers have a real say at work and a fair share of prosperity, trust in democracy grows. That’s how we push back against division and counter the rise of the far right.”