On this year’s International Women’s day our thoughts are first and foremost with the women and girls affected by the war in Ukraine, struggling to cope with life in a country under attack or fleeing to safer places. We know that sexual violence surges in armed conflicts. IndustriAll Europe fears an increase in sexual and human trafficking and exploitation as a result of the war.

Judith Kirton-Darling, industriAll Europe Deputy General Secretary:

“We have all been moved by the high levels of solidarity shown to Ukrainians forced to flee from the war. We call on European states welcoming refugees to have specific care for female and child refugees and their higher exposure to sexual violence and exploitation. All governments must provide the protective services and facilities needed to avoid further damage to their lives.”

Furthermore, industriAll Europe calls on all trade unionists to stand up for equal working conditions, equal pay and equal career opportunities. We join the ETUC’s appeal to join forces and negotiate for a better, more equal world of work.

Judith Kirton-Darling:

“Our industries are facing a massive change as a result of the green and digital transformations. Increasing the diversity of our industrial workforce is vital to guarantee the future of sustainable production in Europe. New ideas and inspiration are needed, as well as a new leadership culture, creative collaboration and deeper reflection on how these changes impact on different groups in society and industry.”

It is increasingly clear that diverse companies are more sustainable and likely to financially outperform their peers.  A report has found that companies in the top quartile of gender diversity on executive teams are 25 percent more likely to experience above-average profitability than peer companies in the fourth quartile.

Contact: Andrea Husen-Bradley (press and communication), Maike Niggemann (policy adviser)