Strong Trade Unions and Partnerships in Development Cooperation

22 January 2025 was an important day for trade union partnerships in German development cooperation. In the presence of German Development Minister Svenja Schulze, sequa, AWE, the German trade unions DGB and GEW and the Ukrainian trade union TUESWU celebrated the official launch of this pioneering programme.  

What are trade union partnerships and why are they important?

The trade union partnerships provide a sustainable basis for fair economic development and help to improve living and working conditions in the partner countries in the long term. Trade union partnerships enable a direct exchange between German trade unions and their partners in the respective project countries. As an experienced implementing organisation, sequa contributes its expertise in quality assurance, monitoring and application. With over 30 years of experience and a broad network of partner organisations, sequa enables effective cooperation based on common goals. 

Ukraine as a first example - A strong signal for solidarity!

An outstanding example of the success of trade union partnerships is the cooperation between the German Trade Union for Education and Science (GEW) and the Ukrainian Trade Union of Education and Science Workers in Ukraine (TUESWU). In the midst of the political and economic challenges in Ukraine, this project sends a meaningful signal: Together we are strong!  

How can German trade unions get involved?

We invite all German trade unions to become part of this programme. Submit your project outline and play an active role in shaping the future of trade union partnerships. This programme not only offers the opportunity to drive forward important projects, but also the chance to stand up for workers' rights internationally.  

We look forward to working with our partners and to future projects that strengthen global solidarity and contribute to a better world of work!  

You can find more information about the programme here.