The labour movement has lost one of its most influential figures with the passing of Dan Gallin, a lifelong champion of workers' rights and international solidarity. Born in 1935, Gallin's remarkable journey took him from Swiss trade unionism to becoming a global voice for labour justice.
A Life Committed to Workers' Struggle
Gallin's career spanned continents and decades, marked by his unwavering commitment to improving workers' lives. As former general secretary of the International Union of Food Workers (IUF), he transformed the organisation into a powerful force for global labour rights.
Key Contributions to Labour Movement
- Pioneered international solidarity among food and hospitality workers
- Championed democratic trade unionism during challenging political climates
- Advocated for workers' rights across global supply chains
- Mentored generations of labour activists and organisers
Intellectual Legacy and Lasting Impact
Beyond his organisational work, Gallin was a prolific writer and thinker whose analyses of trade unionism remain essential reading. His 1994 work "The International Trade Union Movement and the Challenges Ahead" predicted many of today's labour challenges with remarkable prescience.
Even in retirement, Gallin remained active through the Global Labour Institute, continuing to shape labour discourse until his final days. His passing leaves a void in the international workers' movement, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations fighting for economic justice.
