The Caribbean island nation of Trinidad has recently become the hub for crucial regional labor discussions, with delegates from the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) making the journey to take part in two landmark meetings organized by Public Services International (PSI).
Public Services International, a global federation representing millions of public sector workers across the globe, called the regional gatherings to address pressing challenges facing public service employees across the Caribbean and Latin America. The meetings brought together union leaders, labor organizers and worker representatives from across the region to collaborate on policy priorities, coordinate advocacy efforts and share strategies for defending workers’ rights.
For the ABWU, participation in these high-level talks marks a key step in reinforcing the union’s regional ties and amplifying the voices of Antigua and Barbuda’s workers on a broader international platform. Delegates from the union were able to present the unique challenges faced by workers in small island developing states, from persistent wage stagnation to the growing impact of climate change on public sector infrastructure and employment. They also joined fellow union representatives in open dialogues about strengthening collective bargaining frameworks, improving workplace safety standards, and expanding social protection for workers across all sectors of the economy.
Beyond formal discussions, the meetings also provided valuable opportunities for cross-union networking and capacity building. ABWU delegates gained insights from successful labor campaigns led by other regional unions, particularly in areas such as advocating for fair public sector funding and opposing privatization efforts that threaten worker job security. The outcomes of the PSI regional meetings are expected to shape coordinated regional action over the coming two years, with participating unions committing to work together on shared goals that benefit working people across the Caribbean.