For the first time in over 80 years, the United Auto Workers (UAW) has launched a nationwide strike against the Big Three automakers in the United States—General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler). The strike began on September 15 after negotiations over a new labor agreement failed to reach a resolution before the deadline.
As of now, the number of auto workers participating in the strike has reached 25,000. Workers at the Ford assembly plant on Torrence Avenue in Chicago were among those who put down their tools and walked off the job. The strike has captured global attention due to its potential impact on the global automotive industry and supply chains.
CGTN reporters visited the strike site to speak with workers about their demands. One worker expressed the need for proper wages and benefits to cope with high inflation affecting the cost of living. Another worker highlighted that while the company has made record profits in recent years, employees have been on the same contracts for eight years without significant improvements.
The UAW is advocating for better wages, improved benefits, and more robust job security provisions. The union argues that the profits enjoyed by automakers should be reflected in fair compensation for workers who have contributed to the companies’ success.
The strike’s impact extends beyond the United States, as disruptions in production could affect global supply chains, including suppliers and markets in Asia. Asian investors and market analysts are closely monitoring the situation, given the interconnectedness of the automotive industry and the potential for shifts in economic trends.
As the strike continues, the negotiations between the UAW and the Big Three automakers remain critical not only for the U.S. labor market but also for the global automotive industry. The outcome could set precedents for labor relations and economic dynamics in the sector worldwide.
Reference(s):
'We Talk': What's behind the historic U.S. auto workers' strike?
cgtn.com
