Reflecting on a Defining Moment in the Labour Movement
I started my working life as a low-paid children's residential care worker supporting vulnerable children. It was through the mentorship of powerful women that I discovered the labor movement and the importance of solidarity among working-class people. This collective strength is essential if we are to reclaim dignity in our workplaces and communities.
My Unanticipated Election as General Secretary
On December 17, 2025, I was elected general secretary of Britain's largest union, Unison. While this event could be seen as rather mundane, it holds immense significance: I am the first ordinary member to ever lead this union. My election reflects a profound desire for democratic renewal within the labor movement—a wake-up call for both members and leaders.
A Descent of Leadership: The Role of Betrayal
The historic blows we've endured, particularly from Thatcherite politicians and indifferent employers, have undeniably weakened our unions. Our current impotence and low participation rates speak volumes about this troubling trajectory. Yet, it's crucial to recognize that some in leadership positions have also contributed to our decline. Cultures fostering disregard for ordinary members are at the heart of this deterioration. Defending our class interests often became secondary to personal ambition and cozy relationships within Westminster.
“Ordinary members are taking control.”
The decisive margin by which I was elected signifies members' clear demand for prioritizing our collective interests. Under my leadership, Unison will put our people first.
Transforming Union Strategies
Industrially, we are putting all employers on notice—from local councils run by Reform UK to Wes Streeting's Department of Health and Social Care. Unison is now poised to leverage its unmatched resources and numbers in the fight for our members' rights. This effort will begin with our “organising to win” strategy, launched in 2021 by members at Unison's conference and bolstered under my guidance.
A Collective Vision for Political Accountability
Politically, we now have a mandate from ordinary Unison members to defend working-class interests without hesitation. We must stand unflinchingly in support of the Palestinian people's freedom struggle and oppose war actively. Recent events, including the treatment of imprisoned Palestine Solidarity Campaign activists, underscore the urgency of this mission. The silence from our political leaders, particularly in the Labour party, is unacceptable, and I call on Keir Starmer to take immediate action.
No More Propping Up Hostile Politicians
As we turn the page, it is evident that supporting politicians who undermine our interests must come to an end. I have been disheartened by recent remarks made by Labour's Wes Streeting, who described striking resident doctors as 'morally reprehensible.' Such comments reflect a dangerous trend within the party, and it's vital that we remain vigilant against those who prioritize elitism over collective welfare.
Looking Forward
Swapping one leader for another from the right wing of the Labour party will bring no real solution to our pressing issues. We must seek a radical policy shift grounded in the fundamental values of the labor movement. My victory is not merely an individual achievement, but a victory for all ordinary Unison members who have finally claimed agency within their union.
Our Mandate for Change
The public sector workers who keep this nation running deserve recognition and respect. Our commitment to change is not just rhetoric; it is a pledge to work collaboratively—from the ground up—to ensure Unison fulfills its potential as an unwavering champion for its members. Together, we will reshape the future of our union and our communities.
In conclusion, the journey ahead is long but necessary. With determination and unity, we will transform Unison into a powerful member-led force, unapologetically committed to defending the interests of every worker.
- Andrea Egan is the general secretary-elect of Unison.
Source reference: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/dec/19/new-head-unison-politicians-unions-labour
