is a democratic member-based international union of waste pickers committed to advancing the rights and strengthening the organising of waste pickers. The process of setting up IAWP started in 2008, with our constitution approved by waste pickers’ movements in 34 countries around the world in October 2022, which was a major milestone, followed by the First Elective Congress to elect the office bearers of the organization in May 2024.
The International Alliance of Waste Pickers is a union of 59 waste picker organizations representing more than 500,000 workers across 37 countries.
The Executive Council is the organization’s key decision-making body. It is formed by all affiliates and meets every five years to elect the Executive Council, including the Office Bearers.
Our staff is a committed team of professionals who work every day to support our members, strengthen our initiatives, and bring our vision to life.
We document and analyze the realities of waste pickers across the globe — from working conditions and environmental impact to access to rights and inclusion in public systems. Our research helps amplify the voices of waste pickers and supports evidence-based advocacy at local, national, and international levels.
IAWP works to strengthen the political voice of waste pickers by supporting grassroots organizing, influencing public policy, and engaging with international institutions. Our goal is to ensure waste pickers are recognized as essential workers and granted social and labor protections.
Active participation of the International Alliance of Waste Pickers in the process
The United Nations is in the process of negotiating a global treaty to tackle plastic pollution. This treaty aims to address all stages of the plastic life cycle, including design, production, and disposal.
The boundaries on the map shown here are based on Google Maps, and IAWP does not agree with or endorse any of the borders marked on the map.
Reports and documents on the work and struggles of waste pickers worldwide.
