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29.04.2026 10:00

Rights, Voice, Action: PAM Network Leaders meeting and canvassing in Helsinki

PAM Networks Leaders’ Forum gathered in Helsinki for two days to learn more about the union, plan activities, practice organising, and to get to know each other. Ditmar Hasanaj was elected chair of the Forum.

Group photo with about 20 PAM Network Leaders in an office corridor, smiling and some raising fists, wearing lanyards and casual clothes.

PAM Networks Leaders’ Forum‘s role is to help develop PAM’s activities and to bring the perspective of immigrant members into the union’s decision-making.

At the meeting, the Leaders discussed the current state of the trade union movement and the internationalization of the Finnish labour market.

PAM’s Executive Director Heidi Lehikoinen attended the meeting and emphasized that Finnish trade unions are part of the international labour movement that benefits not just members but society at large. International comparisons show clearly that societies with a high level of unionization and broad collective agreement coverage are the most equal in terms of income distribution.

The discussion also highlighted that eliminating labour exploitation and activating immigrants in trade union activities are key to securing and developing a fair working life for future generations as well.

Putting theory into practice

The meeting was not all talk, but a combination of theory and practice in organising. The Network leaders ventured out in pairs at the shopping mall Redi to talk to workers in restaurants and shops about PAM.

–We were telling about PAM and how you should join for your safety and for knowledge of your rights as worker, and how help is just a phone call away if you have questions, explained April.

Some Leaders had prior experience with canvassing and workplace visits, but for many it was their first time. The initial nervousness quickly faded as they visited workplaces together, were positively received, and heard from current PAM members.

–The past days have been eye-opening. I learnt a lot about workers’ rights, and I’ve learnt to canvass and speak to new people, said George from Helsinki.

Gareth from Vaasa was also really pleased with the first meeting of the Forum.

– I thought I already knew a lot, but I’ve learnt even more now . I’m ready and eager to get back to Vaasa to help spread the message of why PAM is a good union to be in, said Gareth.

Bringing immigrant perspectives to the union

Ditmar Hasanaj says his personal goal as a network leader is to have more low threshold events. Picture: Hildur Boldt

The PAM Forum’s first meeting in April 2026 culminated in the election of the chair. The role of the chair is to write the annual report and to speak on behalf of the Forum within PAM, for example at a meeting of the PAM executive committee in September.

In a four-way race, Ditmar Hasanaj was elected chair and Anton Pullukkutti vice chair of the Forum.

– I’m glad for the opportunity, excited to learn more, and to connect with the other leaders, Ditmar said right after he was elected.

The function of the Forum is to bring the perspectives of international workers to union’s decision-making.

Ditmar thinks PAM has done amazing work with the PAM Networks and pushing initiatives that benefit workers, but he says PAM can still do better representing migrant workers and on immigration policy. An example would be the three-month rule.

– It gives power over migrants to employers who exploit. It is in everyone’s interest that the rights of all workers are protected.

More low threshold events

Ditmar says his personal goal as a network leader is to organise more low threshold events. That’s something he has experience doing in his own local union branch, where he’s the solidarity coordinator.

– We are organising solidarity brunches, where people can come together to enjoy good food and meet people, but also talk about the serious issues of worker solidarity in Finland and globally. The union branch also has open doors every Wednesday, so anyone can come without an appointment.

His tips for union branches that want to engage migrant members: organise low threshold events, including in English or other languages.

—Show that it’s a warm place, that it’s not just about the serious stuff but also making friends and doing nice things together.

Text: Hildur Boldt

Picture: Hildur Boldt, Heta Hedman

Keywords:

membership PAM's governing bodies

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