Amazon is a giant operating in many countries, creating its vast wealth from consumers and from governments by selling Web services. The company continues to grow and make acquisitions that give them market dominance. Their financial power allows them to dictate to workers and governments.

The GMB operates in the UK as a single membership entity. Our experience of Amazon’s union-busting tactics showed that no single entity could curtail Amazon’s restless pursuit of exploitation. We don’t have the same financial power as Amazon and it soon became clear that making Amazon pay would require an alliance and pooling resources, sharing strategies and showing solidarity. During our strikes, we were supported by Uni Global Union, who would forge strong links with the GMB. Uni Global Union is a true global organization working to support workers across the world.

This evolving process has seen BHX4 Coventry workers bring the spotlight to Amazon and create an effective partnership that has united 50 unions from 20-plus countries such as Brazil, the US, Germany, Italy, Poland, India, Spain, Australia, Austria and more. As an Amazon worker and GMB rep, I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to contribute to this, including speaking at events concerning the climate, Black workers’ events, three trade union conferences and NGOs.