Nothing for Us without Us!!

This is our StreetNet motto which always inspires and motivates us to stand up and speak up on behalf of ourselves!

Today, as we celebrate International Street Vendors Day, we recognize and honor the invaluable role that street vendors play in their cities, communities and countries worldwide.

On behalf of StreetNet International, which currently represents more than 900 000 street and market vendors from 62 organizations in 55 countries globally, I would like to emphasize on the spirit of resilience, solidarity, and unity that defines street vendors across the globe, who are not only workers but also community builders, innovators, and providers.

Street vendors are essential workers who are the backbone of local economies, providing essential goods and services, creating jobs, and fostering a sense of community and resilience in public spaces.

Despite uncertain global changes, street vendors work with creativity, adaptability, and determination in challenging circumstances, often facing lack of legal recognition, harassment, and economic insecurity.

This day is a reminder of the need for inclusive urban policies that acknowledge their contributions, ensure their rights, and protect their livelihoods.

We stand in solidarity with street vendors everywhere and remain committed to advocating for fair policies, safe working environments, and the right to organize and access social protection.

Together and in solidarity, we magnify our voices and make ourselves heard. Unity allows us to advocate for fair working conditions, secure livelihoods, and respectful recognition in society.

StreetNet International, as a powerful network, with its great 20-years history and legacy, has offered tremendous value to its members, providing support, advocacy, and resources that empower individuals and workers’ organizations within the informal economy.

We are committed in StreetNet to continue creating a meaningful impact for our members through: global solidarity and unity, advocacy and policy influence, capacity building and trainings, legal support and protection, data collection and research, networking and mutual learning as well as advancing women and youth empowerment.

We are strongly committed to continue empowering and strengthening capacity of street and market vendors, including traders with disabilities and migrant vendors, to influence positive changes for a more just, inclusive, and dignified future for all who work in the informal economy, at the same time promoting strategies on gradual transition from the informal to the formal economy, which should be based on the provisions of the ILO Recommendation 204 (2015).

Let today be a reminder of our shared mission, purpose and our commitment to each other. Through unity, we can overcome challenges, support one another, and create a future where all street and market vendors are recognized, respected, and protected within the countries systems.

Together, we remind the world that the rights and dignity of street and market vendors are essential to the whole society and its prosperity.

In Solidarity,

Oksana Abboud

StreetNet International Coordinator