On February 21, representatives of the Federation of Transport Trade Unions (FTTU) to CITUB took part in a theoretical and practical training in media literacy, aimed at improving the communication skills of trade union activists.

The training included FTTU members from "Metropolitan", "Stolichen Avtotransport", "Burgasbus", "Port Varna - West" and "Stolichen Elektrotransport", who actively participated in discussions and practical exercises. Lecturers were established journalists from leading national media. They shared their professional experience and gave valuable guidance for effective communication with the media, as well as for adequate presentation of trade union positions on socially significant topics.

During the training, key aspects of working with the media were discussed, including:

- how to present an event in a way that makes it socially and media-relevant;
- how interest in a topic is maintained and why news loses its relevance after the third day;
- the specifics of television appearances and broadcast time constraints – usually 3–4 minutes for a live broadcast;
- the difference between a live appearance and a recorded participation;
- the importance of attention and responsible behavior in every situation when journalists and cameras are present.

A special emphasis was placed on interview preparation. The participants discussed and practiced the principle of formulating three key messages that should be present in every public appearance:

- Why the topic is important – its impact on workers and society;
- The facts – clear, concrete and verifiable;
- What the solution is – concrete proposals and expected results.
- Preparation – the key to stronger trade union representation

The training reinforced the understanding that good media preparation is an essential element of modern trade union activity. In a dynamic information environment, the ability to clearly communicate problems, arguments and solutions is crucial for making the voice of workers heard.

For FTTU, the preparation of trade union activists is not a one-time initiative, but a consistent policy. Investment in knowledge and skills increases the confidence of trade union activists, strengthens public trust and contributes to more effective protection of labor and social rights.

The Federation will continue to develop the competencies of its members because a strong, prepared and informed trade union is a guarantee for sustainable solutions and better working conditions in the transport sector.