As the TUC Congress kicks off in Brighton this week, the Movement team has been combing through the agenda to pick out the sessions we’re most excited by.
We think this year’s TUC really captures the most important issues and themes of our current times whether that’s AI in the workplace, the crisis in Palestine or the domestic threats posed by the far-right.
So whether you’re a campaigner, union organiser, or political activist the TUC is the perfect platform to get involved in discussion and push for policy change from the government. The TUC keeps the government to account in its pledges and tracks their progress. If you can get down to Brighton for the event then this list could be your perfect guide. If not then it gives you a flavour of the kind of discussions taking place in our modern world.
Here’s our curated guide to some of the highlights you won’t want to miss.
Setting the agenda on Sunday
Motion 31 – UK Resilience
We start the week by exploring the government’s review of UK resilience. From national security to emergency response systems, this motion calls for better resourcing, long-term funding, and public recognition of the vital scientific work that goes into protecting our society. A must-follow for anyone interested in the infrastructure that keeps our society safe.
Motion 48 – Fair Funding for Local Authorities
Local authorities are facing mounting debt and cuts to essential services. This motion tackles the crisis head-on, pushing for sustainable funding and fair pay for frontline workers, with key takeaways for campaigners focused on social justice and community services.
Interactive events on the Monday
Lunchtime Workshop on Making Presenter Videos to Fight the Far Right
Get hands-on with your phone and learn how to create compelling social media videos to challenge far-right narratives. Led by VideoRev, this session is perfect for trade unionists and organisers ready to lend their voice and influence to fighting the myths and misconceptions shaped by the far-right
Evening: Fringe Event: Retrofit, Climate and Jobs – Why Unions Must Lead
Fuel Poverty Action, ACORN, Greener Jobs Alliance, and invited MPs explore how retrofitting homes can tackle climate change, fuel poverty, and create secure green jobs. For campaigners passionate about climate and labour issues, this is essential.
Digital Skills and Inclusion on the Tuesday
Motion 63 – AI and the Future of Work
Community union brings AI to the agenda. Learn how to harness technology responsibly in the workplace, retrain staff, and ensure AI enhances jobs rather than replaces them. A must for anyone planning campaigns around workplace innovation.
Lunchtime Fringe: Black Women Organising
Following a report commissioned by the CSP, NASUWT and GMB, this session tackles harassment, bias and building safer, more inclusive workplaces for Black women. Interactive and insightful for union leaders and activists looking to implement change.
Workshop: How to Harness Digital to Boost Campaigns
From turning messages into shareable content to expanding your online reach, this hands-on session will give your branch or campaign a digital upgrade.
Evening Fringe: Islamophobia and the Political Landscape
NASUWT and GMB host a discussion on anti-Muslim hatred, reporting and challenging racism, and shaping government consultation. Speakers include Baroness Shaista Ghohir and experts from the Migrants Rights Network.
Global Issues on the Agenda for Wednesday
Motion 71 – The Crisis in Palestine
The National Education Union presents a motion on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This session will cover international law, UK government complicity in Israel and Benjamin Netanyahu's actions, and union-led campaigns for peace and human rights.