Livelihoods and Liberation Struggles

“The story of Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA is the story of workers and people struggling against poverty and injustice across the globe. The work of APHEDA, as detailed here in this dramatic blow-by-blow account, can inspire new generations of activists, unionists and campaigners for global justice, in Australia and overseas. The book offers lessons that are both positive and critical, from experiences across many countries and political situations. It doesn’t just celebrate thirty years of achievement, but also conveys the passions, complexities, tragedies and victories of late twentieth century politics and social movements.”Sharan Burrow, General Secretary, International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) “I commend the Australian union movement and its humanitarian aid agency Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA for your solidarity and support to our independence struggle and your ongoing commitment to supporting us in developing health, education, reconstruction and human rights programs.” Xanana Gusmao, former Prime Minister and President of East Timor “As a strong supporter of Union Aid Abroad-APHEDA since the early days, I know that APHEDA has always stood for social justice in any country in which it works. APHEDA, you bring honour to the Australian trade union movement, and this account of Australian worker solidarity over 30 years will no doubt bring inspiration to many here and internationally.” Professor Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO, former Governor of New South Wales “APHEDA’s development assistance programmes have made a very significant contribution. Assistance is not only material, or helping realise the ultimate goal of freedom in South Africa. Assistance is about people, about people in Australia caring enough about our people to contribute financially, to contribute their time, their skills and their emotions. This is what sustains us. This is what is irreplaceable in human endeavour. This is the true meaning of solidarity.” Nelson Mandela