As we approach 2025, we find ourselves navigating challenging and uncertain times. The global political stage has shifted dramatically, with Trump’s re-election in the US intensifying international instability, environmental inaction, and the rise of far-right movements. Meanwhile, global conflicts are escalating, pressuring governments, economies, and working people worldwide.

Here in Aotearoa, the coalition government has embarked on an alarming agenda to dismantle the hard-won gains for workers, unions, and communities. Cuts to workers’ rights, economic mismanagement, and targeted attacks on Māori rights have defined their first year in office. From repealing Fair Pay Agreements and reintroducing 90-day trials to slashing public services and undermining te reo Māori, their policies have left no corner of society untouched. Yet, despite these assaults, 2024 has shown us that collective action can turn the tide. When we stand together, we fight back and build a better future.

The Challenges We Face

Eroding Workers’ Rights

The government’s rollback of worker protections under the guise of “flexibility” and “economic growth” is nothing less than an attack on collective power. From scrapping Fair Pay Agreements to undermining bargaining rights, their agenda strengthens corporate interests at the expense of working people. This erosion doesn’t just harm union members; it drives down wages and conditions for all workers.

Economic Waste and Austerity

The coalition’s economic choices, their cancelling of the iReX ferries debacle, the tax refunds to landlords,  severe cuts to public services, etc have created spiraling unemployment has severely weakened our economy. Communities are paying the price for their overspending and mismanagement, while wages stagnate, and essential services buckle under strain.

Attacks on Māori and Te Tiriti

Policies such as the proposed Treaty Principles Bill have undermined Māori rights and protections under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. These actions betray their disregard for equity and justice. Unions are proud to stand with opposition to these attacks and participate in demonstrating the extraordinary resistance such the Hīkoi mō Te Tiriti.

Strengthening Our Movement

Despite these challenges, we’ve seen the power of unity in action. Over the past year, CTU affiliate unions have been standing up for their members in workplaces day in and day out. The CTU has also brought affiliates together to:

• Host Reimagining Aotearoa Together forums, shaping worker-focused policy platforms for release in 2025.
• Organise nationwide hui through Fight Back Together, galvanising over 12,000 members and allies.
• Lead a Health and Safety event at Parliament, ensuring worker voices are heard in vital legislation discussions.
• Attend over 20 rallies led by our affiliated unions.
• Mobilise campaigns via Together.org.nz, from saving public assets to amplifying local journalism and addressing sector-specific issues.

These efforts remind us that every action—big or small—strengthens our collective power.

A Values-Based Path Forward

In these times of division and uncertainty, our values—kotahitanga (unity) and manaakitanga (care and support)—must guide us. The union movement has always stood for fairness, equity, and a future where everyone thrives. Let’s use these principles to inspire action and create meaningful change.

Together for Change

The lessons from the Fight Back Together Maranga Ake hui show what’s possible when unions and communities unite. We need to grow our ranks, engage non-union members, and remind everyone that the power to change the government starts with us.

Join Your Union

Unions are our strongest defence against inequality and exploitation. If you’re not already a member, now is the time to join. Together, we can win the future we deserve.

Speak Out

Share your stories, talk to your whānau, and let others know why these issues matter. Personal stories have the power to inspire action.

Get Active

Attend rallies, sign petitions, and support union campaigns. Every action counts, and staying connected is key to driving change.

One Term, One Chance

While the 2026 election feels a long way off, 2025 will be the year where we must keep the government and opposition focused on everyday working people, and the needs that drive us. Every choice this government makes reflects their priorities. Do they reflect yours?

Let’s ensure their disregard for working people is met with unrelenting resistance. By staying focused and united, we can make 2025 a turning point—one where fairness, equity, and collective strength prevail.

You are the union. You are the change. Let’s fight back together—and win.