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Trade union leaders from across Europe and the world gathered in Milan in late September to examine how workers can be protected and represented amid rapid technological, economic and social change, as Italy's largest trade union confederation, CGIL, marked its 120th anniversary.

The event brought together senior labour movement figures and policy experts, including International Trade Union Confederation General Secretary Luc Triangle, European Trade Union Confederation General Secretary Esther Lynch, CGIL's Head of International and European Policy Salvatore Marra, and Nicolas Schmit, President of the Foundation for European Progressive Studies.

Discussions centred on the transformation of work, with participants exploring how trade unions, governments and employers can respond to challenges ranging from artificial intelligence and the energy transition to job insecurity and global supply chains.

A recurring theme was the need to ensure workers are not left behind as economies evolve. Speakers argued that technological and environmental transitions must be accompanied by strong labour protections, quality employment opportunities and effective collective bargaining.

The relationship between peace, democracy and social justice also featured prominently throughout the event. Marra described war as fundamentally incompatible with democratic progress and workers' rights.

"War is incompatible not only with social progress, but with democracy itself," he said.

Triangle echoed those concerns, emphasising the responsibility of trade unions to defend democratic institutions and values.

"We are fighting for democracy, we are fighting for democratic values," he said.

European cooperation was presented as a key tool for safeguarding workers' interests. Lynch highlighted the importance of cross-border trade union action in shaping labour legislation at the European level.

"By working together at the European level, we can win legislation," she said.

The debate also focused on the quality of employment available to younger generations. Schmit warned that many young Italians continue to face precarious working conditions despite broader economic changes.

"Thirty-nine per cent of young Italians are in very unstable, insecure jobs," he said.

Organisers said the discussions reflected the challenges facing trade unions in the 21st century as they seek to respond to changing forms of work while defending hard-won rights.

Founded in 1906, CGIL was created to unite workers across different industries and regions. As it celebrates 120 years of activity, the organisation says it is renewing that mission in response to today's technological, economic and social transformations.

The anniversary programme continued on 30 September at Milan's Teatro alla Scala, where Italian President Sergio Mattarella attended an event celebrating CGIL's history through theatre and artistic performances.

Union leaders at the Milan gathering said the future of work will depend not only on managing technological and economic change, but also on strengthening democracy, protecting rights and ensuring that future generations have access to secure, quality employment.