Statement from the IndustriALL Global Union ArcelorMittal Network

We, the representatives of ArcelorMittal trade unions worldwide and IndustriALL Global Union, united in our commitment to workers’ rights and welfare, issue this statement in light of the urgent issues identified at our recent meeting.

The critical occupational health and safety (OHS) situation at ArcelorMittal requires immediate attention. The company’s focus on the bottom line at the expense of the safety and well-being of its workers is not only unacceptable, it poses a direct threat to the lives of those who contribute to its success. This is all the more striking given ArcelorMittal’s record profits and strong financial position.

In addition, management’s approach to unions on health and safety and broader social issues is deeply troubling. The lack of meaningful dialogue and consultation, despite the statement on the company’s website that “additional safety oversight is provided by the Global Health and Safety Committee (GHSC), which shares and promotes best practice and is chaired by the Corporate Health and Safety Officer”, has led to strained relations and calls for a fundamental change in ArcelorMittal’s approach to industrial relations.

The recent tragedy in Kazakhstan, which claimed 46 lives, has highlighted the need for unions to be involved in independent investigations. We demand that workers’ representatives be included in the commission investigating this disaster and in any discussions about the transfer of operations.

In Ukraine, workers face enormous stress and uncertainty as a result of the ongoing war. PJSC ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih’s refusal to extend the collective agreement during martial law and for another six months after its expiry, and the management’s decision to extend the agreement only on the condition that changes are made that significantly worsen the situation of the workers, is a form of collective blackmail that we strongly condemn. We express our unwavering support and solidarity with the Ukrainian workers at this difficult time. We call on ArcelorMittal to extend the collective agreement at PJSC ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih during the period of martial law and for six months after the end of the war.

We support the actions organized in Bosnia-Herzegovina on November 20, in Italy on November 23 and in the Czech Republic on November 27. These demonstrations of solidarity are essential to express our collective concerns and advocate for change.

Investment in decarbonization is another area where ArcelorMittal needs to significantly step up its efforts. The company’s current investment strategies do not adequately address the urgent need for sustainable and responsible operations. Furthermore, we insist that any public support given to ArcelorMittal be conditional on the company’s adherence to strict standards on employment, working conditions, training, social dialogue and health and safety at work. Public funds must support companies that are committed to responsible and ethical business practices.

We call on governments and international institutions to ensure that public support, particularly for decarbonization efforts, is conditional on maintaining and improving social conditions. The transition to a greener economy must not be at the expense of workers’ rights and welfare.

We also insist on the need for immediate action to guarantee the safety of workers in all their operations, particularly in South Africa and Italy, as well as protection for workers facing terrible conditions (extreme heat) and anti-union practices in Brazil. These are non-negotiable aspects of workers’ welfare.

Given the seriousness of the situation, we feel compelled to take action. We plan to take action against ArcelorMittal to hold the company accountable and to press for significant improvements in the working conditions and rights of its workers worldwide. We will work together to defend the dignity, safety and fair treatment of all ArcelorMittal workers.

In addition, we will evaluate our participation in the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) in light of the responses and actions taken by ArcelorMittal management. Our continued participation will depend on the company’s commitment to genuinely address the concerns raised and implement the necessary changes.

This statement is a call to action to ArcelorMittal. We demand tangible change and a commitment to the safety, rights and dignity of all workers in its global operations. Our collective voice will continue to defend these fundamental principles until they are fully implemented and respected.

Issued by the OGBL Steel and Mining Syndicate,
December 1, 2023