Congress in Jakarta – an historic event!
The International Workers Association (IWA-AIT) held its 29th Congress in in Jakarta, Indonesia. 22 member organisations took part in the meeting – in person or virtually. The congress marathon lasted 3 days and still failed to discuss all the points! This IWA Congress was the first ever held in Asia and reflects the growing interest in anarcho-syndicalism around the world.
Expansion of IWA with new sections
The IWA are happy to announce it has expanded by 2 new sections:
*WSF from Pakistan – which will host the next Plenum
*FORA-AIT from Argentina
In addition, at least one organization intends to apply to change its status from "Friends of the IWA" to a full-fledged section.
Expansion in South America and Africa
Congress confirmed IWA's willingness to hold talks with organisations in South America and Africa and visiting those who are interested in anarcho-syndicicalism. The organisation of lecture tours was agreed.
Anti-militarism – confirmation of principles
IWA has reaffirmed its commitment to one of the fundamental principles: anti-militarianism. An IWA Working Group will be established and some sections of the IWA have already established cooperation with other anti-militarist organizations and networks.
Solidarity with comrades in Colombia
IWA has expressed support and mutual assistance for colleagues in Colombia who want to open collective solidarity bakery, which will also serve as a social center for
working-class community. We look forward to hearing about the development of the project and wish you good luck in its organization! We hope that it will serve the community and show how you can implement collective projects without hierarchy and bosses!
Discussion of campaigns and membership growth
Congress held a discussion on the campaign against unpaid salaries and ways to increase the number of members by individual sections. Many sections had different experiences, so the exchange of information and discussion of direct activities and strategies for the development of the organization was very fruitful.
Topics for the next Plenum
Some proposals need further development and are likely to be Plenum topics. The longer discussion, which unfortunately could not be carried out due to lack of time, concerns:
- Establishing new anarcho-syndicalist organizations
- Sharing experiences with newer organizations (Initiatives)
Analysis of whether IWA materials on this subject are too Eurocentric and how they can be improved
These topics will be discussed at the next Plenum, which will be held in Pakistan.
IWA Congress held covertly due to circumstances
We were very pleased that a successful congress in South East Asia had been carried out, even though we had to be clandestine because of the intense government repression of those with our views. Continuing our commitment to promoting the development of our organizations in different parts of the world and making international meetings more accessible to people who are sometimes blocked from entering the Fortress Europe, we look forward to the next trip to Asia for the next Plenum.