ADB bans asbestos products from future projects Asian governments urged to follow
From January 2026, none of the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) projects will be permitted to use asbestos-containing materials of any kind. This landmark decision follows a robust four-year campaign, led by trade unions in the region, including the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) and Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI), with the support of Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA.
Australian unions: Standing strong on international solidarity
This year has been a powerful one for Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA, as we doubled down on our mission to advance international solidarity within the Australian union movement. From union conferences to global justice advocacy, we’ve worked across Australia to keep solidarity with workers worldwide at the heart of our union movement.
Strength in adversity: Karen women leading in refugee camps
Umphiem Mai refugee camp in Thailand was formed in 1999, and many residents, predominantly Karen people, have lived there for a long time. Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA is proud to support the Karen Women Organisation in equipping its leaders with critical skills in leadership, project management, human rights, and training.
Union power! Workers are winning in Samoa
Samoa First Union (SFU), the only union representing workers in Samoa’s private sector, has had an exceptional year. Despite being a small union representing workers in retail, supermarkets, hotels, hospitality, fisheries, and seasonal workers deployed to Australia and New Zealand, SFU’s impact over the past 12 months has been significant, securing victories for workers that will benefit future generations.
Vietnam: Strengthening the role of women in political life
ion Aid Abroad-APHEDA is proud to support women’s leadership in Vietnam to increase women’s participation in political decision-making. This project has made significant strides in empowering women at the commune, district, and provincial levels across three provinces and one city: Haiduong, Bac Kan, Phu Yen and Haiphong.