The WMCW was set up in 1966. Today, it brings together more than 70 affiliated organizations from four continents. Its member organizations promote the interests of all those who rely upon their work or for their income, whether formally or informally

A continuing-education movement

The WMCW is a movement of formation through action. The member movements are committed to raising awareness through permanent education. Their objective is to create solidarity and encourage their members to take an active part in the commitment to social change. That is, a comprehensive education, one aimed at commitment and concerning all aspects of life. To reach this goal, the WMCW applies the «-see-judge-act method», also called the «Review of life».

The ultimate goal of this collective action of continuing education is to improve the living conditions of all workers and their families.
In order to encourage its members to contribute to this positive evolution of society, the WMCW invites them to be involved in social organizations, such as trade unions as well as in other peoples’ organizations. It also calls upon them to give a political dimension to their commitment.

A Christian movement

The message of the Gospel is a major source of inspiration for the WMCW. In this way, the WMCW affirms its belief in the personal dignity of each man and woman. It rejects a purely materialistic vision of human beings and of the world. The Gospel invites us to make a preferential option for the poor, the vulnerable and the excluded. It proclaims the equal value of all human beings, and is the basis of the belief that:
We are all brothers and sisters because we all have the same Father.

The WMCW is recognized by The Catholic Church as an association of the faithful. In this way, it strengthens the closeness between the Church and the Labour world. It also acts as a spokesperson for the workers within the Church and a means by which their contribution becomes more valuable.

An open movement

The member organizations of the WMCW take action for all workers regardless of race or religion. They share with all workers the same solidarity and commitment for Decent Work in a New Society. The WMCW member organizations seek to collaborate with all communities and associations committed to the same cause.

An International movement

The WMCW brings together national and regional organizations. It promotes a mutual exchange and collaboration. It thus offers an international forum where they can exchange and share their experiences and analyses.

In our globalised world, important decisions are more and more taken at the international level. Workers demands often go beyond the boundaries of their workplaces even their countries. That is why the WMCW defends the claims of its member organizations at the international level. And whenever it is possible, it does it through a collective action, working hand in hand with other organizations.

Indeed, the movement seeks to globalize solidarity! As a Non-governmental organization (NGO), the WMCW has a consultative status to some United Nations Organizations (International Labour Office, UNESCO, ECOSOC).