Ghana: Unions forge new collaborations to compel Chinese MNCs to respect labour rights

In collaboration with the FES  Trade Union Competence Centre Sub-Saharan Africa - TUCC , represented by Kathrin Meisner and Bethuel Maserumule, 26 BWI affiliates from 15 countries pushed to bolster labour rights and representation within projects spearheaded by Chinese multinational companies (MNCs). Trade unions raised concerns regarding the lack of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) implementation and workplace hazards. They called for unity and cross-border solidarity in organising workers across industries with BWI Regional Representative for Africa and the Middle East Crecentia Mofokeng stressing the need for innovative approaches to tackle existing challenges in her opening remarks.

The relationship between numerous Chinese MNCs operating in Africa and the safeguarding of workers' rights remains a pressing concern. This prompted BWI and its affiliated trade unions to establish partnerships with key stakeholders, including international financial institutions (IFIs) like the African Development Bank (AfDB), a key funder of many projects in the region. The collaboration sought to ensure that Chinese MNCs adhere to global labour standards and uphold workers' rights, addressing issues such as social standards set by the Bank for companies involved in Bank-funded projects.

The network crafted action plans aimed at implementing labour standards and social safeguards set by IFIs, including the AfDB, to empower affiliates in organising, mobilising workers, negotiating better conditions, and advancing workers' interests in BWI sectors. Phillip Vilakazi, BWI Titular Member and Deputy President of the National Union of Mining (NUM), emphasisaed the crucial role of BWI-affiliated trade unions in ensuring that development initiatives prioritise workers' well-being and improve working conditions, stressing that progress should not come at the expense of workers.