| Labour Research Service

A trade union snapshot of international trade in South Africa

The South Africa Trade Fact Sheet supports international trade advocacy by trade unions, particularly their campaign for an AfCFTA that benefits workers.

A trade union snapshot of international trade in South Africa Read More »

South Africa Trade Fact Sheet

Resources / LRS

This resource supports international trade advocacy by South African trade unions, particularly their campaign for an AfCFTA that benefits workers.

South Africa Trade Fact Sheet Read More »

Inflation Monitor | October 2024

Resources / LRS

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) slowed to 2.8% in October 2024, from 3.8% in September 2024.

Inflation Monitor | October 2024 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | September 2024

Resources / LRS

The consumer price index fell to 3.8% in September, down from 4.4% in August.

Inflation Monitor | September 2024 Read More »

Trade unions to stand firm against rainbow capitalism and anti-LGBTI+ backlash at the ILGA World Conference

Articles / LRS

“We cannot allow rainbow flags to cloak labour exploitation.”

Trade unions to stand firm against rainbow capitalism and anti-LGBTI+ backlash at the ILGA World Conference Read More »

Practical guide for implementing ILO Convention 190 in public sector workplaces

Resources / LRS

Using C190 to strengthen public sector unions’ efforts to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace.

Practical guide for implementing ILO Convention 190 in public sector workplaces Read More »

Inflation Monitor | August 2024

Resources / LRS

The inflation trends from June 2022 to August 2024.

Inflation Monitor | August 2024 Read More »

The economy grew in the second quarter

Articles / LRS

Here is what is really going on.

The economy grew in the second quarter Read More »

The Real Economy Bulletin | Q2 2024

Resources / LRS

The quarterly bulletin by Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies provides insights into the broader economy and tracks the performance of key industries over time.

The Real Economy Bulletin | Q2 2024 Read More »

Bargaining Benchmarks | September 2024

Resources / LRS

A resource for trade union negotiators.

Bargaining Benchmarks | September 2024 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | July 2024

Resources / LRS

The annual headline inflation rate slowed to 4.6% in July 2024, from 5.1% in June.

Inflation Monitor | July 2024 Read More »

Taking Action on Violence and Harassment against LGBTQI+ Workers (Participant Handbook)

Resources / LRS

Taking Action on Violence and Harassment against LGBTQI+ Workers (Participant Handbook) Read More »

Taking Action on Violence and Harassment against LGBTQI+ Workers (Facilitator Guide)

Resources / LRS

Taking Action on Violence and Harassment against LGBTQI+ Workers (Facilitator Guide) Read More »

Principles for workers’ data privacy and protection

Articles / LRS

As employers increasingly use data for key decisions, unions demand transparency to protect the dignity and autonomy of all workers.

Principles for workers’ data privacy and protection Read More »

Industry and bargaining councils wage settlements | Q2 2024

Resources / LRS

In Q2 2024, median wage increases ranged from 4% to 8%, with Agriculture leading at 8.5%. The median increase across all Bargaining Councils was 6%, against a 5.1% inflation rate.

Industry and bargaining councils wage settlements | Q2 2024 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | June 2024

Resources / LRS

The annual headline inflation rate was 5.1% in June 2024, down from 5.2% in May 2024.

Inflation Monitor | June 2024 Read More »

LRS briefing on Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) negotiations

Resources / LRS

To inform trade union strategies and AfCFTA advocacy in countries.

LRS briefing on Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) negotiations Read More »

Inflation Monitor | May 2024

Resources / LRS

Consumer Price Index Unchanged at 5.2% in May 2024.

Inflation Monitor | May 2024 Read More »

The Real Economy Bulletin | Q1 2024

Resources / LRS

This quarterly bulletin by Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) takes the temperature of the broader economy and tells you about the relative performance of the main industries over time.

The Real Economy Bulletin | Q1 2024 Read More »

Bargaining Benchmarks | June 2024

Resources / LRS

Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for trade union negotiators in South Africa.

Bargaining Benchmarks | June 2024 Read More »

Industry wage settlements | Q1 2024

Resources / LRS

The mining and quarrying sector recorded the highest percentage increase in median wage in Q1 of 2024, at 9%.

Industry wage settlements | Q1 2024 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | April 2024

Resources / LRS

The consumer price index slowed to 5.2% in April 2024.

Inflation Monitor | April 2024 Read More »

Basic Conditions of Employment Act, 1997

Resources / LRS

A summary of the provisions of the most important sections of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA).

Basic Conditions of Employment Act, 1997 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | March 2024

Resources / LRS

The annual headline inflation rate slowed down to 5.3% in March 2024 from 5.6% in February 2024.

Inflation Monitor | March 2024 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | February 2024

Resources / LRS

The annual headline inflation rate rose to 5.6% in February 2024, up from 5.3% in January 2024.

Inflation Monitor | February 2024 Read More »

Location-based platform work in South Africa – Mapping the prospects for organising

Resources / LRS

The context, the trends, and the prospects for labour rights.

Location-based platform work in South Africa – Mapping the prospects for organising Read More »

Fact sheet on the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF)

Articles / LRS

Everything a Volunteer Food Handler should know about UIF benefits.

Fact sheet on the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Read More »

Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Fact sheet

Power Up, Resources / LRS

Everything a Volunteer Food Handler should know about UIF benefits.

Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Fact sheet Read More »

Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2024

Resources / LRS

The basic benchmarks a negotiator needs for the bargaining process.

Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2024 Read More »

Wage Bargaining Review | 2024

Resources / LRS

This report provides insights into wage trends across industries and unions to aid negotiators in preparing for bargaining.

Wage Bargaining Review | 2024 Read More »

Is it time to rethink how we approach collective bargaining?

Articles / LRS

Wage trends for 2023 suggest the need for new approaches to collective bargaining.

Is it time to rethink how we approach collective bargaining? Read More »

Inflation Monitor | January 2024

Resources / LRS

Headline consumer inflation rose to 5.3% year-on-year in January from 5.1% in December.

Inflation Monitor | January 2024 Read More »

Five essential resources for union negotiators

Articles / LRS

Refresh your knowledge and skills on wage bargaining using LRS resources created for trade union negotiators.

Five essential resources for union negotiators Read More »

Inflation Monitor | December 2023

Resources / LRS

Annual headline inflation fell from 5.5% in November to 5.1% in December.

Inflation Monitor | December 2023 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | November 2023

Resources / LRS

The annual consumer price inflation was 5.5% in November 2023, down from 5.9% in October 2023.

Inflation Monitor | November 2023 Read More »

Transportation | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for transportation sector.

Transportation | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Technology and Telecommunications | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for technology and telecommunications sector.

Technology and Telecommunications | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Paper and packaging | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for Paper and packaging sector.

Paper and packaging | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Mining | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for mining sector.

Mining | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Industrial | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for industrial sector.

Industrial | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Hospitality | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for hospitality sector.

Hospitality | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Health | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for health sector.

Health | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Food and beverage | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for food and beverage sector.

Food and beverage | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Diversified Sector | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for diversified sector.

Diversified Sector | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Construction | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for the construction sector.

Construction | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Banking and financial services | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for banking and financial services sector.

Banking and financial services | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Retail | 2023 Sector Report

Resources / LRS

Bargaining with South African multinational companies: Revenue, profit and directors’ remuneration for retail sector.

Retail | 2023 Sector Report Read More »

Bargaining Benchmarks | December 2023

Resources / LRS

A resource for trade union negotiators in South Africa.

Bargaining Benchmarks | December 2023 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | October 2023

Resources / LRS

Headline inflation increased from 5.4% in September 2023 to 5.9% in October 2023.

Inflation Monitor | October 2023 Read More »

Using the power of coalitions in trade union bargaining and advocacy

Articles / LRS

Eight key actions that can create solidarity and make coalitions work.

Using the power of coalitions in trade union bargaining and advocacy Read More »

Inflation Monitor | September 2023

Resources / LRS

Fuel and food push inflation up to 5.4 per cent in September 2023

Inflation Monitor | September 2023 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | August 2023

Resources / LRS

Consumer price index rose to 4.8% in August 2023.

Inflation Monitor | August 2023 Read More »

Bargaining Benchmarks | September 2023

Resources / LRS

A resource for trade union negotiators in South Africa.

Bargaining Benchmarks | September 2023 Read More »

The Real Economy Bulletin | Q2 2023

Resources / LRS

The Real Economy Bulletin is a quarterly publication of Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) that examines trends, developments and data in the real economy.

The Real Economy Bulletin | Q2 2023 Read More »

Understanding value chains: A guide for shop stewards

Articles / LRS

An introduction to value chains as a tool for trade unions to renew their bargaining and organising strategies.

Understanding value chains: A guide for shop stewards Read More »

Annual Report for 2022-23

Articles / LRS

Our Annual Report shows the different ways in which we work with and for the trade union movement to address the challenges facing our organisations and the world of work.

Annual Report for 2022-23 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | July 2023

Resources / LRS

Annual headline inflation rate fell to 4.7% in July from 5.4% in June.

Inflation Monitor | July 2023 Read More »

Women’s human rights in the informal sector

Articles / LRS

This Women’s Month, we advocate for better protection of women’s rights, especially in the informal sector, and celebrate trade unions that are working to improve the lives of many.

Women’s human rights in the informal sector Read More »

VIDEO: Casual workers organise to claim their rights

Articles / LRS

Women casual workers talk about how they organised to fight for their right to permanent employment.

VIDEO: Casual workers organise to claim their rights Read More »

The LRS Pick n Pay Company Report 2023

Resources / LRS

The LRS Pick n Pay Company Report 2023 Read More »

How to approach the equity bargaining process

Articles / LRS

Equity bargaining is about ensuring that collective bargaining promotes equity in the workplace. Here’s how the union negotiator should approach equity bargaining.

How to approach the equity bargaining process Read More »

Using the law to support bargaining strategies: Which labour laws for which problem?

Articles / LRS

Effective shop stewards use labour laws to organise and represent workers. Here are 16 workplace scenarios and the labour laws to use for best results.

Using the law to support bargaining strategies: Which labour laws for which problem? Read More »

Resources for facilitators and trainers

Articles / LRS

Exercises and games stimulate the senses and help us to learn new concepts and ideas creatively. Access our facilitation exercises for use in participatory education.

Resources for facilitators and trainers Read More »

Inflation Monitor | June 2023

Resources / LRS

The annual inflation rate decreased from 6.3% in May 2023 to 5.4% in June 2023. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 0.2% month-on-month in June 2023.

Inflation Monitor | June 2023 Read More »

Trade union action on labour migration for Africa’s development

Articles / LRS

Trade unions can help meet the challenges of free movement and free trade in Africa to benefit African workers and economies.

Trade union action on labour migration for Africa’s development Read More »

Inflation Monitor | May 2023

Resources / LRS

Our simplified version of inflation data in South Africa for trade union negotiators.

Inflation Monitor | May 2023 Read More »

A Guide to the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Goods

Articles / LRS

The Guide to the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Goods identifies areas of caution and opportunities for trade unions campaigning for decent work in the Continental Free Trade Area.

A Guide to the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Goods Read More »

Framing a just transition for trade unions in Africa

Articles / LRS

How do we define a just transition? What steps can we take to make it more tangible?

Framing a just transition for trade unions in Africa Read More »

RESOURCE: The Real Economy Bulletin | Q1 2023

Articles / LRS

The Real Economy Bulletin examines real economy trends, developments and data and is useful for negotiations and research.

RESOURCE: The Real Economy Bulletin | Q1 2023 Read More »

A Guide to the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Goods

Resources / LRS

The Guide to the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Goods identifies areas of caution and opportunities for trade unions to inform their advocacy and campaigning work as representatives of the working class in Africa.

A Guide to the AfCFTA Protocol on Trade in Goods Read More »

Thinking about labour provisions and the AfCFTA

Articles / LRS

We support trade unions campaigning for decent work in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Thinking about labour provisions and the AfCFTA Read More »

Bargaining Benchmarks | June 2023

Resources / LRS

Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for trade union negotiators in South Africa.

Bargaining Benchmarks | June 2023 Read More »

Industry wage settlements | Q1 2023

Resources / LRS

Median wage increases for various industries, sample agreements on the Actual Wage Rates Database (AWARD) of the LRS.

Industry wage settlements | Q1 2023 Read More »

Negotiating inclusivity: The experience of a queer workers’ representative

Articles / LRS

Tumelo Mokoena (33) is a member of FEDUSA’s youth committee who says progressive workplace policies have contributed to a positive experience as a worker and trade union representative.

Negotiating inclusivity: The experience of a queer workers’ representative Read More »

Inflation Monitor | April 2023

Resources / LRS

Annual consumer inflation fell to 6.8% in April from 7.1% in March. This is the lowest reading since May 2022.

Inflation Monitor | April 2023 Read More »

Six trade union responses to the impact of the AfCFTA in Namibia

Articles / LRS

These suggestions for dealing with the impact of the Continental Free Trade Area on jobs and employment can also help trade unions in other countries.

Six trade union responses to the impact of the AfCFTA in Namibia Read More »

Using feminist pedagogy to transform a university trade union

Articles / LRS

Women leaders in the Academic and Professional Staff Association Union (APSA) are inspired to incorporate feminist principles, values and approaches into the policies and activities of the union.

Using feminist pedagogy to transform a university trade union Read More »

Four reasons to use the LRS Agreements Database

Articles / LRS

Sharing knowledge about successful negotiations and agreements can strengthen the overall position of workers and trade unions and lead to better outcomes for all.

Four reasons to use the LRS Agreements Database Read More »

Gender equality: What it is and how to achieve it

Articles / LRS

Learn what creating a culture of gender equality means for the Labour Research Service.

Gender equality: What it is and how to achieve it Read More »

How trade unions can support Education Support Personnel

Articles / LRS

Teachers’ unions are concerned about the exploitation of education support personnel, the lack of decent jobs and the violation of fundamental human and labour rights, including the right to organise and bargain collectively.

How trade unions can support Education Support Personnel Read More »

A review of minimum wages in South Africa

Resources / LRS

Increases in the national minimum wage were above inflation from 2021 to 2023, resulting in real wage increases of 1.3% in 2021, 1% in 2022 and 2.6% in 2023. The National Minimum Wage Commission gazetted a medium-term target that requires increases above CPI for the lowest paid workers.

A review of minimum wages in South Africa Read More »

What is the principle behind a condition at work?

Articles / LRS

Conditions at work always have a principle of wellbeing, fairness or a social value that underpins them. This principle forms the foundation of arguments in negotiations. Here are 15 main types of conditions at work and their value.

What is the principle behind a condition at work? Read More »

Resource: Inflation Monitor | March 2023

Articles / LRS

Inflation tells us something about the buying power of a worker. Effective negotiators need to ensure that workers get regular increases to maintain the buying power of their wages.

Resource: Inflation Monitor | March 2023 Read More »

Inflation Monitor | March 2023

Resources / LRS

Annual consumer price inflation was 7,1% in March 2023, up from 7,0% in February 2023. The CPI increased by 1,0% month-on-month in March 2023.

Inflation Monitor | March 2023 Read More »

Strengthening collective bargaining is essential to counter the tactics of big business

Articles / LRS

SACCAWU’s example shows how LRS member unions are getting better at using company information to win better outcomes for members.

Strengthening collective bargaining is essential to counter the tactics of big business Read More »

Inflation Monitor | February 2023

Resources / LRS

A simplified version of the latest inflation data to support negotiators and the union’s bargaining process.

Inflation Monitor | February 2023 Read More »

Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2023

Resources / LRS

Benchmarks to help union negotiators enter negotiations as informed players.

Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2023 Read More »

AGREED: A database of collective agreements for bargaining and research purposes

Articles / LRS

You have signed the collective agreement. You have shared it with your constituency and filed it safely for future reference. What if you could benchmark the agreement against agreements in other unions or sectors? You can do this and more with the LRS Agreements Database (AGREED).

AGREED: A database of collective agreements for bargaining and research purposes Read More »

A checklist for bargaining with companies

Articles / LRS

Trade union negotiators can prepare for negotiations by following these five steps for using company information.

A checklist for bargaining with companies Read More »

Wage Bargaining Review | 2023

Resources / LRS

This report provides insights into wage trends across industries and unions to aid negotiators in preparing for bargaining.

Wage Bargaining Review | 2023 Read More »

Trade unions negotiating on environmental issues in the world of work

Articles / LRS

The ‘Trade Unions Going Green’ booklet is for workers’ organisations interested in the potential of a just transition. The booklet offers practical information for ensuring this for workers.

Trade unions negotiating on environmental issues in the world of work Read More »

Inflation Monitor | January 2023

Resources / LRS

The average annual consumer price (CPI) fell to 6.9% in January 2023, with food inflation at its highest level in 14 years.

Inflation Monitor | January 2023 Read More »

How trade unions can support volunteer food handlers

Articles, Power Up / LRS

As key players in the school community and in government consultative spaces, trade union activists can help to make visible the work of volunteer food handlers in the National School Nutrition Programme.

How trade unions can support volunteer food handlers Read More »

[PDF] Power Up Nutrition Series | Proteins

Power Up, Resources / LRS

The Power Up Nutrition Series comprises a set of eBooks exploring the links between food and nutrition. The eBooks can assist school communities and trade union activists looking to promote and support healthy nutrition and Volunteer Food Handlers in the National School Nutrition Programme.

[PDF] Power Up Nutrition Series | Proteins Read More »

MNC Trends Report | 2022

Resources / LRS

Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinationals: A review of revenue, profits and executive pay for JSE-listed companies operating in 12 sectors.

MNC Trends Report | 2022 Read More »

NEW RESOURCE: MNC Trends Report | 2022

Articles / LRS

Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinationals: A review of revenue, profits and executive pay for JSE-listed companies operating in 12 sectors.

NEW RESOURCE: MNC Trends Report | 2022 Read More »