Globally, postal workers are fighting back against privatization, deregulation, and contracting out.  In many countries, postal workers are demanding that they receive a fair share of benefits from automation.

These actions benefit postal workers everywhere.  They inspire us, they give us ideas on how to fight back and they remind postal management that they cannot ignore us.

Norway:  Postkom is the Union representing postal workers in Norway.  Recently, they pressured the Norwegian Government to drop their plans to privatize and deregulate the post office.  They did this by sending letters to municipalities, lobbying politicians, and educating their members.  When CUPW representatives attended an International Labour Conference in Norway, they met with and held discussion with Postkom representatives.

Japan:  The Japanese Government announced plans to halt the planned privatization of Japan Post.  The Government responded to fears that privatization would result in Japan Post curtailing services in the countryside.  Japan Post will now be required to make postal services and banking and insurance services available nationwide.  The Japanese government also plans to use the post office network as bases to protect the rights of vulnerable members of society.  Post offices will serve as outlets for administrative services.

South Africa:  The Communication Workers Union has made a tremendous effort to force the Post Office to hire permanent workers instead of temporary workers.  To date, over 1,000 temporary workers have got permanent jobs.  CUPW is working in partnership with the CWU, to provide a series of educational workshops.

The Netherlands:  The Post Office in the Netherlands is privatized.  It is operated by TNT – a transnational corporation.  TNT is trying to get Dutch postal workers to pay for their mistakes and the economic crisis.  TNT is forcing postal workers to choose between pay cuts or heavy job losses. The Postal Unions are currently deciding whether to accept wage, benefit and pension cuts.

Great Britain:  Our Sisters and Brothers in the Communication Workers Union recently came to an interim agreement with the management of Royal Mail in regards to Royal Mail’s unilateral introduction of modernization.  They were opposing Royal Mail threats to job security, demands to meet unreasonable work targets and cuts in pay.  This agreement has halted a planned nation wide mail strike.  CUPW has sent letters of support to the CWU.

Whatever corner of the world we are in, we are all facing the same issues.  This is why CUPW is committed to International Solidarity.