Hosted at the historic Redhills Durham Miners’ Hall, the roundtable focused on defending trade union values in industrial communities undergoing profound economic and industrial transformation. Participants discussed the growing pressures created by geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty and the green and digital transitions, reaffirming that workers must remain at the centre of industrial change.

The discussions opened with reflections from ITUC General Secretary Luc Triangle on the role of trade unions in shaping a just transition and safeguarding quality jobs, workers’ rights and democratic participation. IndustriAll Europe outlined its political priorities, stressing that industrial transformation can only succeed if it is built on social dialogue, collective bargaining and strong workers’ involvement.

Speakers highlighted the common challenges facing industrial regions across the world and underscored the importance of cross-border solidarity in defending workers’ interests.

Participants agreed that industrial transformation must go hand in hand with quality employment, investment in industrial communities and strong social protections to ensure that no worker or region is left behind.

The roundtable concluded by looking ahead to the 140th Durham Miners’ Gala, where participants joined trade unionists, workers and their families from across the UK and abroad in one of Europe’s largest celebrations of trade union solidarity.

Organised by the Durham Miners’ Association since 1871, the Durham Miners’ Gala—known as the “Big Meeting”— brings mining communities and trade unionists to the streets of Durham, celebrating the enduring values of solidarity, community and working-class culture.

The roundtable and the Gala together sent a powerful message: in times of uncertainty and rapid industrial change, international trade union solidarity remains more important than ever. By standing together across borders, unions will continue to fight for workers’ rights, quality industrial jobs and a Just Transition that leaves no one behind.