Joint Union Coordination Centre (JTUCC) : Statement on Nepal Labour Forum
Joint Trade Union Coordination Center (JTUCC) with 1.6 million members take immense pride in hosting the World Social Forum in Kathmandu, Nepal, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, an enduring symbol of peace and a historical city renowned for its artisanal heritage. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for making this momentous gathering a resounding success.
The World Social Forum, launched in 2001 in Porto Alegre, Brazil, convenes in Asia after two decades, marking its 16th edition in Nepal under the theme “Another World is Possible” from the 15th to 19th February 2024. During the WSF in Nepal, various social activists worldwide gather in Kathmandu, engaged in diverse programs alongside national and international social organisations, human rights organisations, trade unions, civil societies, youth, women, LGBTQI+ groups and social workers. The World Social Forum has provided a huge platform for the social movements to exchange experiences, explore alternative perspectives, debate, and propose solutions to the pressing crises confronting humanity. Against the dominance of globalization, neoliberalism and capitalism this forum has been significant to raise united voice for the democracy, peace, human rights, labour rights, migrant’s rights, child rights, gender equality, against all forms of discrimination, climate justice & just transition, economic justice, environmental sustainability, land, agriculture & food sovereignty, promote education, art, & culture, digital equity, social protection and justice.
JTUCC along with its 10 affiliated Confederations marched a big rally with around 7,000 union members and raised united voice for labour rights and social justice at the inaugural ceremony of the World Social Forum on 15th Feb, 2024. During the World Social Forum, JTUCC along with the affiliated Confederations- GEFONT, NTUC & ANTUF have hosted various events on social protection, migration and decent employment, contributory social security, gender equality repectively. Similarly, JTUCC and affiliates Confederations placed different stalls from 15th to 19th Feb, 2024 and exhibited & distributed various labour related materials, productions etc.
The Joint Trade Union Coordination Centre (JTUCC) stands as the collective platform for Nepal’s working class, facilitating coordination among 10 recognised National Trade Union Centers affiliated with it. JTUCC organised Nepal Labour Forum- High Level Discussions with theme “Ensuring labour rights – Promoting Social Justice.”
The discussion provided a thorough understanding from national and international trade unions, labour experts on emerging challenges in the global labour market, as well as the changing political and economic landscapes and their potential impacts on the national context.
The discussions in the forum shed light on various challenges facing workers in South Asia and globally. Issues such as the changing nature of work, increasing informal employment, emergence of new technology like automation and AI, alongside jobs insecurity, wage disparities, lack of occupational health and safety issues, gender inequality, exploitation of migrant workers, violations of workers rights, the impact of climate change and lack of social protection of workers were brought to the forefront.
The focused discussions on women and LGBTQI+ workers shed light on wage disparity and workplace discrimination. Discussions on the plight of migrant and informal workers highlighted the inhumane treatment they receive and denial of their fundamental rights. Additionally, the discussions underscored the importance of managing new technological advancements to ensure the gradual adoption of technologies, rather than allowing them to replace millions of jobs abruptly.
Trade Unions consistently aim to attain social justice, uphold workers’ rights, promote peace, and strengthen democracy. Despite dissatisfaction with current work conditions, there remains hope for improvement in the future, necessitating the provision of space for such aspirations. Presently, corporate greed prevails, leading to a lack of decent work and adequate social security. Ongoing restrictions have stifled democracy, yet trade unions persist in advocating for social justice without compromise. Holding entities accountable for human rights violations and safeguarding freedom of association are imperative. Prioritizing workers’ rights over corporate interests is essential in this pursuit.
The Nepal Labour Forum collectively called for actions, emphasizing the importance of solidarity, collaboration, and advocacy for social justice, democracy, and workers’ rights. The need for reform of labour regulations, including stronger regulations, improved social security measures, and the promotion of fair labour practices was underscored. The Concerted efforts are required from governments, employers, trade unions, and civil society to address these pressing issues. Thus, the Nepal Labour Forum called for the integrated actions by strengthening network, solidarity and support at national, regional & international level with the serious commitments against all kind of inequalities, insecurity and injustices.
JTUCC along with its affiliated Confederations stands with solidarity and committed to work together to ensure the fundamental workers right and promote the social justice and urged all stakeholders for united actions to advocate and create a just and equitable world.