The promotion of social justice and an economy for life to which our movement is committed for the next 4 years is only possible if every man and woman has access to decent work, i.e. a job, appropriate remuneration (in cash or in kind), safety at work and healthy working conditions. Unfortunately, trends in the current global political situation seem intent on wiping out the few gains and small steps made so far in terms of personal rights and freedoms. The spectacular rise to power of extreme right-wing parties poses an unprecedented threat to the values of democracy, the rule of law, equality and fairness.
On the celebration of the World Day for Decent Work on October 7, 2024, we join the movements of Europe in their declaration against the rise to power of extreme right-wing parties and their effects on the enjoyment of personal rights and decent work.
For democracy and human rights
It is with great concern that we, the member organizations of the WBCA, observe the resurgence of right-wing populist and even extremist politics in many of our countries. Workers, ordinary employees, and those in precarious living conditions are increasingly drawn to the inhumane rhetoric of neo- and post-fascist parties worldwide. Alarmingly, even some trade union members are expressing sympathies. We firmly believe that turning to right-wing populism and extremism is incompatible with the dignity of working people.
Almost all parties on the right of the political spectrum advocate for extremely neoliberal economic and financial policies. They cater to top earners and the super-rich while denying the social responsibilities of property, especially large fortunes. Their ideology includes a belief in the power of the market and a rejection of the welfare state's responsibilities. People who, for various reasons, are only able to work to a limited extent are systematically defamed, as are migrant workers. Internationally, the nationalism and economic self-interest that these parties hold as their highest principles lead to ruthless global competition for the lowest labor costs. Those who vote for them are voting against their own dignity and rejecting the international solidarity to which Christians are called to.
The seduction of people into contempt for humanity and self-harm echoes the warning given by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew: "Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes!" (Matthew 18:6-7).
We strongly emphasize that, for our movements, respect for human dignity, democracy, and the rule of law are fundamental prerequisites for a just and humane society. We believe that the reason so many people are drawn to these ideologies is that a large number of our fellow citizens, burdened by worries about the future and material hardship, are no longer recognized by politicians and are even deliberately ignored. Right-wing populism and extremism thrive on a toxic mix of frustration and protest against poor crisis management by many governments. This makes the so-called "simple solutions" propagated by figures like Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, Marine Le Pen, and many other populists all the more attractive in this era of accelerated climate change, constant threats to global peace, and far-reaching economic transformations. They weaken and destroy the rule of law and democracy, thereby permanently damaging the conditions necessary for the growth of social justice, which is essential for decent work.
As Christian workers, our calling is to build and shape a society where every person can live and work with dignity. We are convinced that a policy that serves democracy and fundamental rights is rooted in a willingness to compromise, the ability to integrate, and the will to overcome political differences and cultural differences. Therefore, as followers of Jesus Christ, we dedicate ourselves with all our strength to the protection and further development of democracy. Together with all political and civil society forces of "good will," we fight for a democratic global community committed to the dignity of all people and their work.
Message written by Stefan-B. Eirich
KAB GERMANY
