Strengthening Solidarity for the 2026 International Council in the Philippines
In Destelheide, Belgium, during the historic centenary celebration of the Young Christian Workers (YCW), former members and leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region came together with one common goal: to pledge their full support for the 2026 YCW International Council in the Philippines. Former YCW activists from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Australia, and Singapore—representing different generations of the movement—stood united in their commitment to ensure that the coming International Council will be a meaningful and transformative event for young workers around the world.

This gathering of former members was not just a meeting of old friends. It was a gathering of comrades who share a deep conviction that the struggle of young workers continues—and that their collective experiences and wisdom must serve to strengthen the movement today. The discussions in Destelheide focused on two major points: the political preparation and financial planning that are essential to the success of the International Council. They emphasized that without a strong political framework rooted in the realities and struggles of young workers, the council risks becoming symbolic rather than a space of genuine action. Likewise, they called for clear strategies to secure the necessary resources, stressing that the movement must rely on the strength of its members and allies, not on corporate sponsors or institutions that contribute to exploitation.

The meeting also became a space to reflect on the history of YCW struggles in the region—from defending workers’ rights in factories and farms to standing up against unjust governments and oppressive employers. These former leaders reminded everyone that the victories of the past were won through collective action, courage, and sacrifice. They urged today’s YCW members not to lose sight of these lessons and to continue organizing, educating, and mobilizing young workers wherever they are.

A significant outcome of the gathering was the commitment of former members to actively assist the Philippines National Movement in preparing for the 2026 Council. They offered to help in political discussions, planning processes, and even in reaching out to more former members to gather broader support. The possibility of extending and rebuilding YCW work in places like Singapore also arose from the discussions, as former members expressed enthusiasm to rekindle the flame of the movement in areas where it had weakened.

The meeting in Belgium made one thing clear: the road to 2026 must be a road of unity, struggle, and renewed militancy. The task ahead is not easy. Young workers continue to face low wages, insecure jobs, unsafe working conditions, union-busting, and attacks on their rights. The International Council must be a platform where these issues are brought forward with strength and clarity—and where concrete plans for collective action are forged.

With the unwavering support of former YCW members and the active participation of the current generation of young leaders, the 2026 International Council in the Philippines can become a turning point. It can help rebuild the movement, deepen solidarity across borders, and push forward the fight for decent work and a dignified life for all young workers.

As we move towards 2026, let us take inspiration from the voices of those who came before us. Let us organize more young workers, build stronger base groups, and prepare a council that will be remembered as a milestone in the struggle for justice.

The struggle is far from over. The time to act is now. Together, let’s make the 2026 International Council a powerful force for change! Organize, educate, and mobilize for the rights of young workers!