Nora Back, the president of the Independent Luxembourg Trade Union Confederation (OGBL), addressed over 300 participants at a gathering in Hollerich, emphasizing the collective identity of workers and their essential role in generating profits for companies [d2af792b]. The ongoing strike at Ampacet was highlighted as an example of the significance of trade union involvement. Back warned employers against compromising workers' rights and declared the OGBL's commitment to fight for every cent, wage indexation, and collective agreement.
These remarks by Nora Back underscore the ongoing efforts of trade unions to advocate for workers' rights and fair treatment in the labor market. The labor movement is gaining momentum globally, with workers across various industries demanding improved working conditions, representation, and rights through unionization efforts.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has warned member countries, including Nigeria, against jeopardizing recent advancements in the world of work [9627f43c]. ILO Director General Gilbert Houngbo expressed concern about multiple crises that could undermine these advances. He highlighted the need for more social justice at the opening session of the 112th International Labour Conference in Geneva. Houngbo mentioned that all regions have returned to pre-pandemic levels of economic activity, which could provide relief for workers' purchasing power. However, he cautioned that ongoing crises could jeopardize these positive developments. The ILO annual conference will address issues such as protection against biological hazards, fundamental principles and rights at work, and the care economy. The inaugural Forum of the Global Coalition for Social Justice will also take place during the conference.
The World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU) held its International Conference on Democratic Freedoms and Trade Union rights on June 11th, within the framework of the 112th ILC. WFTU’s General Secretary, Pambis Kyritsis, delivered an introductory speech analyzing the global situation and the dangers of rising attacks against the right to strike and the social and political achievements of the working class. Comrade Janaka Adikari, head of the WFTU’s democratic and trade unions rights committee, emphasized the importance of defending the right of workers to strike and organize. Mr. Giorgos Bithimitris, Senior Researcher at the National Centre for Social Research of Greece, highlighted the crucial role that democratic rights and trade union freedoms play in protecting the working class. The conference included a round of discussions where participants from around the world analyzed the different situations in each region. The conference focused on the struggle for the defense of trade union freedoms and the sacred right to strike in the face of increasing attacks on workers' rights and living standards. The capitalist crisis, characterized by the deepening of social inequalities and attacks on trade union freedoms, was identified as the reason behind the intensified attacks on the right to strike. The conference emphasized the need for workers to build a militant front to defend their rights and pave the way for a different course that leads to peace, social justice, and the abolition of exploitation. The conference also discussed the role of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in protecting labor rights and collective bargaining, acknowledging that the ILO has retreated in terms of its role and effectiveness compared to previous decades. The conference featured speeches from Pambis Kyritsis, Janaka Adikari, and Giorgos Bithimitris, who provided valuable insights and perspectives on the importance of trade union freedoms and the right to strike. [bd3416ca]
Caroline Khamati Mugalla, the ILO Director Country Office Dar Es Salaam, emphasized her focus on resource mobilization, visibility, and expanding the ILO's portfolio across East Africa. The ILO works through a tripartite structure involving trade unions, employers, and governments to set standards, raise awareness about conventions, support ratifications, and assist countries in implementing these conventions and reporting on their progress. Mugalla expressed optimism about Tanzania's progress in social protection and mentioned ongoing discussions on standard settings to address climate-related challenges impacting livelihoods. She also highlighted the ILO's efforts to combat child labor globally and the focus on just transition initiatives in the energy sector.
Caroline Mugalla's emphasis on resource mobilization and social justice efforts in East Africa aligns with the broader goals of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The ILO works to promote decent work, employment, social dialogue, and social protection in countries around the world. Mugalla's focus on expanding the ILO's portfolio in East Africa reflects the organization's commitment to supporting countries in implementing labor standards and improving working conditions. The ILO's efforts to combat child labor and promote just transition initiatives in the energy sector demonstrate its dedication to addressing pressing labor issues and promoting sustainable development. [c4ef6d68]