IWGB in Italy: Standing with GKN Workers for Jobs, Justice, and Climate

When IWGB representatives joined a delegation to Italy to support the GKN workers, it was a powerful opportunity to stand in solidarity. They travelled alongside trade union activists from the UK and across Europe, all gathering in Florence to support GKN workers. This was a solidarity trip that exemplified the strength of collective action.

The GKN Fight: Three Years of Relentless Resistance

The story of the GKN factory in Campi Bisenzio near Florence goes back to 2021. With no warning, GKN’s workforce was told their factory would be closed, and hundreds of jobs gone in a stroke. But the GKN workers refused to accept this fate. They took control of the factory, launching a worker-led cooperative and occupying the site to protect their livelihoods and their right to shape their own future. What began as a fight to save jobs has transformed into a movement for a *just transition* that centres on workers, communities, and environmental sustainability.

The GKN workers have also been innovative in their fight for justice. They’ve developed and produced an electric cargo bike, a practical, eco-friendly product that embodies their commitment to both sustainable industries and collective worker-led solutions. This initiative is a perfect example of how they’re proving that workers—not corporations—can lead the way in creating a fairer, greener economy.

Adding to the challenges faced by these workers is the poor public transport situation in the area. The region around the GKN factory is underserved by reliable transit options, which adds to the daily difficulties for the workers and their families. Despite these extra challenges, GKN workers have stood strong, demonstrating immense resilience and community spirit.

A Sunday of Solidarity: From the Assembly to the Streets

The solidarity felt from GKN’s supporters and the surrounding community was unforgettable. As part of the solidarity assembly, IWGB representatives joined other trade union activists to strategize and build cross-border alliances for workers’ rights and climate justice. After the assembly, the group travelled to a small Tuscan town to join another protest led by the SUDD union. SUDD, which organizes migrant workers, is currently supporting a group of Pakistani factory workers in their fight for their legal right to a 40-hour work week. These workers, who had been forced into 12-hour shifts, showed incredible spirit at their lively demonstration, drawing in the community for support on a Sunday evening.

Inspiring International Delegates

One of the most inspiring aspects of the trip was the opportunity to meet international delegates. These were trade union activists from diverse backgrounds, each representing unique struggles. Sharing experiences and strategies reinforced how interconnected the fight for worker justice truly is. The solidarity and collective determination on display were a powerful reminder of the importance of global cooperation in the struggle for justice.

Connecting the Struggles: From GKN to Palestine

In our discussions, we also reflected on how the fight for workers’ rights connects to other global struggles, including the Palestinian struggle for freedom and justice. The GKN workers and their allies have shown incredible solidarity with the Palestine movement, and their support was visible in powerful ways, including striking artwork displayed throughout the factory. Seeing this connection in action was a reminder of how deeply intertwined our fights for justice are, whether it’s against corporate exploitation, colonial oppression, or environmental destruction.

Why GKN’s Fight Matters for IWGB Members

The GKN workers’ fight hits home for us at IWGB. They’re not just advocating for job security; they’re pushing back against corporate exploitation and demanding a voice in their futures. This struggle reflects the challenges faced by IWGB members across our sectors, whether in universities, as couriers, or in cycling instruction.

The connection between workers’ struggles and climate justice is clear. As we face a global climate crisis, it’s essential to ensure that the transition to greener industries doesn’t come at the cost of workers’ livelihoods. Worker-led movements like GKN show us that social and environmental justice must go hand in hand. To build a fairer, more sustainable future, we need to fight these battles together.

How You Can Stand in Solidarity

- Learn more: Follow updates from GKN and IWGB’s campaigns to stay informed.

https://insorgiamo.org/

Follow IWGB branch social media pages

Learn more about our campaigns

-Spread the word: Share GKN’s story and IWGB’s ongoing work—every voice helps.

-Get active: Whether it’s through IWGB or other actions, our participation makes a difference in this fight for fairness.

The Bottom Line: Solidarity in Action

Our trip to Italy was a reminder of the incredible power we hold when we stand together. GKN workers aren’t just fighting for their jobs—they’re fighting for a future that prioritizes people and the planet. Their dedication has fuelled our resolve to keep pushing for worker-led justice and climate accountability. Let’s keep fighting, supporting one another, and pushing for a world where dignity, respect, and sustainability are non-negotiable.