Brussels, Belgium — The International Young Christian Workers (IYCW) is celebrating 100 years of action, education, and solidarity. Since 1925, the movement has helped young workers fight for fair jobs, better lives, and dignity in the workplace.

This year, we don’t just look back—we celebrate the power of young people to create change and shape the future.

A Century of Struggle and Hope

For 100 years, IYCW has stood with young workers. From the very beginning, the movement fought for fair wages, safe working conditions, and protection from exploitation. YCW gave young people the chance to learn, lead, and speak out. Many who joined the movement later became leaders in their communities, in the Church, in trade unions, and even in politics. Wherever YCW exists, it becomes part of the country’s history of struggle, faith, and action.

A Movement for Everyone

YCW never left anyone behind. It welcomed young women, migrants, informal workers, and those in insecure jobs. The spirit of solidarity united us all. Our method—See, Judge, Act—remains at the heart of our work. We learn from real life, reflect deeply, and act together.

Celebrating 100 Years in Belgium

Last May 2025, YCW members from around the world gathered in Belgium to mark our centenary.

May 1: Opening Ceremony

The celebration began at Place J. Benoit Willems. There were inspiring speeches, joyful conversations, and a vibrant march to Laeken. Former and current YCW members met face to face—different generations, one mission.

Later, we entered the Laeken church for a special celebration. Together, we remembered the founder, Father Joseph Cardijn. We honored the sacrifices of past generations. And we renewed our call to build a better world, rooted in faith and solidarity.

Inside the church, a new exhibition opened. It showed the rich history of the movement, with photos, videos, stories, and testimonies from past and present members. It reminded us of where we came from—and why we continue.

May 2: Public Forum in Destelheide, Dworp, Belgium

The next day, we held a powerful public forum. We talked about big issues: The global rise of the right ideologies in achieving decent work and just transition, focused on migration, gender justice, youth in informal work, climate change, and more. Workshops gave space for deep discussion. Former members shared their stories. Young workers brought their concerns and hopes. 

May 2-4: Intercultural Youth Festival in Sint-Truiden

It was a day full of music, food, culture, and action. Young workers, former members, and partner groups gathered at Bautershof to celebrate. Each country brought something special, handmade items, creative displays, and powerful testimonies. It was fun, moving, and unforgettable.

May 5-8: Training and Intergenerational Exchange in Germany

After the festival, youth and former members traveled to Germany for leadership training. The workshops focused on key issues—migration, mental health, job insecurity, and gender equality. Using See, Judge, Act, we shared ideas and planned concrete actions for our future. Together, we learned how to connect experience with today’s realities—so we can face tomorrow with strength and clarity.

In the second phase of the training, concurrent workshops empowered young workers with critical skills in:

Financial Education: Strengthening national movements through fundraising and sustainable financial planning.

YCW Methodology & Characteristics: Reinforcing the "See, Judge, Act" approach in social and labor activism.

Gender Equality & Migration: Addressing challenges faced by women, migrants, and displaced youth while promoting inclusion and dignified work.

Through engaging discussions and collective analysis, participants refined their advocacy strategies, amplifying young workers' voices and fostering global solidarity.

May 8-10: Exchanges of Life and Actions

Delegates also visited YCW base groups in Belgium, Germany, and Spain. They listened to local stories, learned from actions on the ground, and built bonds of solidarity across borders. This exchange showed how the YCW method is alive everywhere. It also showed the power of connecting and growing together.

May 11-12: Common Reflections: Aeropolis, Brussels

Delegates and former YCW members shared valuable insights and reflections from their exchanges, highlighting the impact of the movement on their personal and collective growth. These discussions were followed by dynamic formations on action methodology reinforcing the See, Judge, Act approach and equipping participants with practical strategies for mobilization. In addition, workshops on strengthening networking provided young workers with tools to build strong alliances, foster solidarity, and amplify their collective advocacy efforts at local, national, and international levels.

These sessions deepened the participants' commitment to sustained activism, ensuring that IYCW continues to be a driving force for young workers' rights and social justice. 

Achut, a delegate from YCW Australia, said: “This forum made me feel connected. Our struggles may look different, but our passion is the same. I hope JOCI continues to create spaces like this, where young people can speak and learn from each other.”

A Symbolic Ending, A Powerful Beginning

The centenary ended with a symbolic action—prayers, stories, and a public demonstration. It was a clear message: we are still here, and we are still fighting for justice.

The IYCW leadership said, “This is not just a celebration. It’s a commitment. We want to reach more young workers, form more leaders, and build stronger base groups. We will keep organizing, analyzing, and acting—until every young worker lives with dignity.”

Forward Together

As IYCW begins its second century, one thing is clear: we are still at the beginning.  And that is beautiful! We are always beginning—because new young workers join us, new challenges arise, and new actions are waiting to be taken.

Together, with courage and faith, we will continue the journey.