Bargaining for gender equity
Learn a simple step by step approach to bargaining for gender equity in the workplace
Bargaining for gender equity Read More »
A Guide to Winning Strikes
Strike laws and rights, and ideas for an effective plan.
A Guide to Winning Strikes Read More »
Inflation Monitor | July 2020
The headline annual inflation rate rose to 3.2% in July 2020 from 2.2% in June 2020. On average, prices increased by 1.3% month-on-month in July 2020.
Inflation Monitor | July 2020 Read More »
Collective bargaining agreements during covid-19
Can trade unions continue to successfully negotiate protections for workers in uncertain times?
Collective bargaining agreements during covid-19 Read More »
7 feminist books to read during August Women’s month
Here’s a collection of my favourite books written by women workers, survivors of gender-based violence, school girls and community activists. The writers’ reflections are powerful and empowering.
7 feminist books to read during August Women’s month Read More »
Women’s Month 2020: Putting care at the centre of the agenda
A conversation with Nina Benjamin, Leader of Gender Equality Programme at the Labour Research Service
Women’s Month 2020: Putting care at the centre of the agenda Read More »
Inflation Monitor | June 2020
The headline annual inflation rate rose to 2.2% in June 2020 from 2.1% in May 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.5% month-on-month in June 2020.
Inflation Monitor | June 2020 Read More »
Bargaining Benchmarks | July 2020
Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for role players in collective bargaining in South Africa.
Bargaining Benchmarks | July 2020 Read More »
Inflation Monitor | May 2020
The headline annual inflation rate decreases to 2.1% in May 2020 from 3% in April 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.6% month-on-month in May 2020.
Inflation Monitor | May 2020 Read More »
Industry wage settlements in 2020 | Q1
The highest percentage increase on actual wages in Q1 of 2020 was recorded in the construction sector, at 10%.
Industry wage settlements in 2020 | Q1 Read More »
Education unions in Africa have strategies for dealing with school-related gender-based violence
It’s possible to transform the norms, policies and practices that perpetuate gender-based violence in our schools when stakeholders act collectively.
Working to end school-related gender-based violence: Writings by representatives of education unions from Eastern, West and Southern Africa
Inspiring stories written by participants in the Education Unions Take Action to end School-Related Gender-Based Violence initiative.
Inflation Monitor | April 2020
The headline annual Inflation rate decreased to 3% in April 2020 from 4.1% in March 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.5% month-on-month in April 2020.
Inflation Monitor | April 2020 Read More »
School-related gender-based violence initiative: Profiling the participating trade unions
Nine member trade unions of Educational International in Africa participated in the ‘Education unions take action to end school-related gender-based violence’ initiative.
Strategies to end school-related gender-based violence
It’s possible to transform the norms, policies and practices that perpetuate gender-based violence in our schools when stakeholders act collectively.
Strategies to end school-related gender-based violence Read More »
COVID-19: Implications for healthcare workers
Nurses on the front lines of the health care response to covid-19 pandemic have found themselves in a tricky position, making difficult decisions about their own lives and that of patients.
COVID-19: Implications for healthcare workers Read More »
Covid-19: Concession process for teachers with comorbidities
Public education sector unions signed a collective agreement on the procedures to follow when dealing with teachers who are at a higher risk of complications if they contract Covid-19.
Covid-19: Concession process for teachers with comorbidities Read More »
June is Pride Month
Despite the progressive laws, workers who are LGBTI+ continue to experience violence and discrimination.
June is Pride Month Read More »
Covid-19 pandemic: a perfect storm for LGBTI youth
With the school closures, reduced support services and a lack of community support, these young South Africans are more vulnerable.
Covid-19 pandemic: a perfect storm for LGBTI youth Read More »
Holding a virtual board meeting during the covid-19 pandemic: How we did it
Trenton Elsely, Executive Director of Labour Research Service, speaks about organising the first-ever online board meeting of the organisation.
Holding a virtual board meeting during the covid-19 pandemic: How we did it Read More »
When the job hurts- Workplace injuries and disease among South Africa’s domestic workers
The Solidarity Centre report looks at the incidence of occupational injury and illness among domestic workers in South Africa.
When the job hurts- Workplace injuries and disease among South Africa’s domestic workers Read More »
The state of the labour market during Covid-19 | Address by the Director of CCMA
Answers to many of your questions about the operations of the CCMA during the covid-19 lockdown.
The state of the labour market during Covid-19 | Address by the Director of CCMA Read More »
Emergency Online Solutions to the Covid-19 Pandemic for African Trade Unions
How are African trade unions responding to the Covid-19 pandemic? 10 key points in a new report
Emergency Online Solutions to the Covid-19 Pandemic for African Trade Unions Read More »
Inflation Monitor | March 2020
The headline annual inflation rate decreased to 4.1% in March 2020 from 4.6% in February 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in March 2020.
Inflation Monitor | March 2020 Read More »
“The Covid-19 pandemic has affected my dignity as a gay worker.”
Nkosinathi Zwane says the covid-19 pandemic has affected his small business and his dignity as a gay worker.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has affected my dignity as a gay worker.” Read More »
Inflation Monitor | February 2020
The headline inflation rate increased to 4.6% in February 2020 from 4.5% in January 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.1% month-on-month in February 2020.
Inflation Monitor | February 2020 Read More »
Covid-19: The impact on small-scale fishers – A perspective from South Africa
How can workers in the small-scale fisheries industry be supported to thrive during the covid-19 pandemic and beyond?
Covid-19: The impact on small-scale fishers – A perspective from South Africa Read More »
COVID-19: Implications for waste reclaimers
The coronavirus pandemic has worsened the plight of waste reclaimers. Here’s how the government can support the workers helping to save up to R750m in potential landfill costs per year.
COVID-19: Implications for waste reclaimers Read More »
Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2020
Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for role players in collective bargaining in South Africa.
Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2020 Read More »
Workplace preparedness guide for COVID-19 | Department of Employment and Labour Advisory
Here’s how workplaces in South Africa should respond to the coronavirus outbreak | Source: http://www.labour.gov.za/
Workplace preparedness guide for COVID-19 | Department of Employment and Labour Advisory Read More »
How to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 crisis on informal sector workers
A network of organisations representing informal workers in South Africa wants the government to provide social and economic support to millions of workers in the informal sector amid covid-19.
How to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 crisis on informal sector workers Read More »
The impact of COVID19 on informal workers in South Africa
How to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 crisis on informal workers in South Africa.
The impact of COVID19 on informal workers in South Africa Read More »
Workplace preparedness guide for covid-19 | Department of Employment and Labour advisory
The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires an employer to provide a safe working environment for employees.
Workplace preparedness guide for covid-19 | Department of Employment and Labour advisory Read More »
Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19 | A WHO advisory
The World Health Organisation and governments around the world have taken action to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.
Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19 | A WHO advisory Read More »
Coronavirus: Getting Workplaces Ready
How to prevent the spread of the covid-19 in your workplace and the measures to take when travelling to work and organising organising meetings and events. Applying the OHS Act.
Coronavirus: Getting Workplaces Ready Read More »
Inflation Monitor | January 2020
The headline inflation rate increased to 4.5% in January 2020 from 4% in December 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in January 2020.
Inflation Monitor | January 2020 Read More »
Workplace rights belong to everyone: Addressing homophobia in the workplace
Trade union and civil society activists in South Africa explore practical strategies for ending homophobia.
Workplace rights belong to everyone: Addressing homophobia in the workplace Read More »
Sexual orientation draft code: Schools take responsibility to prevent discrimination
This booklet provides educators, parents and learners with a basic understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity, with the objective of ending discrimination and prejudice in institutions of learning and society.
Sexual orientation draft code: Schools take responsibility to prevent discrimination Read More »
2019 Sector report – Transport
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for transport sector.
2019 Sector report – Transport Read More »
2019 Sector report – Retail
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the retail sector.
2019 Sector report – Retail Read More »
2019 Sector report – Paper and packaging
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the paper and packaging sector.
2019 Sector report – Paper and packaging Read More »
2019 Sector report – Mining
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the mining sector.
2019 Sector report – Mining Read More »
2019 Sector report – Media
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the media sector.
2019 Sector report – Media Read More »
2019 Sector report – Industrial
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the industrial sector.
2019 Sector report – Industrial Read More »
2019 Sector report – Hospitality
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the hospitality sector.
2019 Sector report – Hospitality Read More »
2019 Sector report – Health
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the health sector
2019 Sector report – Health Read More »
2019 Sector report – Food and beverages
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for food and beverage sector.
2019 Sector report – Food and beverages Read More »
2019 Sector report – Education, Bus training and Employment
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for banking and financial services sector.
2019 Sector report – Education, Bus training and Employment Read More »
2019 Sector report – Construction
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for the construction sector.
2019 Sector report – Construction Read More »
2019 Sector report – Banking and Financial Services
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: 2019 Fact Sheet – Revenue, profit and executive pay for banking and financial services sector.
2019 Sector report – Banking and Financial Services Read More »
School-related gender-based violence: How to make a difference
Research on violence in schools in South Africa shows the issue is worsening. South African Democratic Teachers Union has mapped the key action areas to end the violence.
School-related gender-based violence: How to make a difference Read More »
Inflation Monitor | December 2019
The headline inflation rate was 4% in December 2019 compared to 3.6% in November 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in December 2019.
Inflation Monitor | December 2019 Read More »
A history of trade unionism in South Africa
This booklet contains valuable lessons that leaders can use to strengthen the trade union movement.
A history of trade unionism in South Africa Read More »
The role of teachers in preventing gender-based violence in schools
Teacher unions in South Africa are confronting school-related gender-based violence to restore a safe learning environment and the dignity of the teaching profession.
The role of teachers in preventing gender-based violence in schools Read More »
Inflation Monitor | November 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 3.6% in November 2019 from 3.7% in October 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.1% month-on-month in November 2019.
Inflation Monitor | November 2019 Read More »
A commissioner’s guide to improving your chances of winning CCMA cases
Commissioner Nhlanhla Ndaba offers a quick refresher to worker representatives on navigating CCMA processes.
A commissioner’s guide to improving your chances of winning CCMA cases Read More »
The Death Sentence of Being a Girl Child in The Gambia
In The Gambia where the prevalence of female genital mutilation in women aged 15-49 is 74.9%, trade union activists are breaking the culture of silence to ensure the girl child is safe.
The Death Sentence of Being a Girl Child in The Gambia Read More »
UN Women handbook – addressing violence and harassment against women in the world of work
Global collectives have raised their voices against violence and harassment against women in the world of work and called for real change to achieve safe, healthy and respectful work environments for all women. There is hope – and it is coming from the world of work itself. Download PDF
Education unions take action to end school-related gender-based violence
Teachers and education unions are at the forefront of the efforts to end school-related gender-based violence in sub-Saharan Africa.
Education unions take action to end school-related gender-based violence Read More »
Bargaining Indicators 2019 | Gender Equality Section
Ending violence, discrimination and harassment in the workplace is a union issue.
Bargaining Indicators 2019 | Gender Equality Section Read More »
Six ways to end gender-based violence
The root cause of gender-based violence is inequitable gender norms. What can you do to help end GBV?
Six ways to end gender-based violence Read More »
The national minimum wage legislation post enactment – Key insights, challenges and the journey ahead
Chair of National Minimum Wage Commission, Prof Adriaan Van der Walt’s presentation at the 3rd Annual CCMA Shop Stewards & Union Officials Conference in September 2019.
A report of proceedings of the national minimum wage commission in South Africa
Trenton Elsely, LRS Executive Director and member of the National Minimum Wage Commission, reports on the proceedings of the oversight body.
A report of proceedings of the national minimum wage commission in South Africa Read More »
Enforcement of the national minimum wage in South Africa
As the first anniversary of the implementation of the National Minimum Wage Act looms, here are the gains made so far.
Enforcement of the national minimum wage in South Africa Read More »
Bargaining Equality – Discrimination
A trade union checklist of the collective agreement language for bargaining LGBTI+ rights.
Bargaining Equality – Discrimination Read More »
Bargaining Benchmarks | November 2019
Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for role players in collective bargaining in South Africa.
Bargaining Benchmarks | November 2019 Read More »
Applying a Decent Standard of Living (DSL) measure towards a coherent policy design
In the context of policy making in South Africa, it is easy to lose the big picture of the direction in which the country hopes to move. We unpack some of the policy implications for the DSL.
Applying a Decent Standard of Living (DSL) measure towards a coherent policy design Read More »
The future of work | Bargaining Indicators 2019
The story of how the future of work will look is still being written and trade unions in Africa must also wield the pen.
The future of work | Bargaining Indicators 2019 Read More »
Wage Bargaining Review | 2017-2018
Wages and the living wage.
Wage Bargaining Review | 2017-2018 Read More »
Inflation Monitor | October 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 3.7% in October 2019 from 4.1% in September 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in September 2019.
Inflation Monitor | October 2019 Read More »
Inflation Monitor | September 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 4.1% in September 2019 from 4.3% in August 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in September 2019.
Inflation Monitor | September 2019 Read More »
Organising at work | A guide for trade union activists
How should an organised workplace look like? Get this guide and learn how to build and maintain strong workplace unions.
Organising at work | A guide for trade union activists Read More »
Inflation Monitor | August 2019
The headline inflation rate rose to 4.3% in August 2019 from 4% in July 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in August.
Inflation Monitor | August 2019 Read More »
Industry wage settlements in 2019 | Q3
The highest percentage increase on actual wages in Q3 of 2019 was recorded in the mining, quarrying, financing, insurance, real estate and business services industries, at 9%.
Industry wage settlements in 2019 | Q3 Read More »
Bargaining Indicators | 2019
Bargaining Indicators provides trade union negotiators with economic indicators and benchmarks useful for developing bargaining strategies.
Bargaining Indicators | 2019 Read More »
Bargaining Benchmarks | September 2019
Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for role players in collective bargaining in South Africa.
Bargaining Benchmarks | September 2019 Read More »
Breaking the chain: Value chain analysis as a tool for renewing trade union bargaining and organising strategies
This article attempts to introduce the trade union reader in sub-Saharan Africa region to the concept of value chains.
Where does the DSL come from?
We now have a socially derived definition of a decent standard of living (DSL) in South Africa. The DSL was developed using simple steps that included what ordinary people thought.
Where does the DSL come from? Read More »
Inflation Monitor | July 2019
The headline inflation rate decreased to 4% in July 2019 compared to 4.5% in June 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.4% month-on-month in July 2019.
Inflation Monitor | July 2019 Read More »
Inflation Monitor | June 2019
The headline Inflation rate was 4.5% in June 2019. The food price increased to 3.2% in June 2019, from 2.8% in May 2019.
Inflation Monitor | June 2019 Read More »
Industry wage settlements in 2019 | Q2
The highest median wage settlements in the second quarter of 2019 was found in the Community, Social & Personal Services and Mining & Quarrying industries, at 8%.
Industry wage settlements in 2019 | Q2 Read More »
Inflation Monitor | May 2019
The headline inflation rate increased to 4.5% in May 2019 compared with 4.4% in April 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month May 2019.
Inflation Monitor | May 2019 Read More »
Bargaining Benchmarks | June 2019
Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for role players in collective bargaining in South Africa.
Bargaining Benchmarks | June 2019 Read More »
Wage negotiations in South Africa: what to expect in 2019-2020
2019-2020 period will see some key sectors involved in wage negotiations. George Mthethwa gives his take on union bargaining in the current context.
Wage negotiations in South Africa: what to expect in 2019-2020 Read More »
Inflation Monitor | April 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 4.4% in April 2019 compared to 4.5% in March 2019. On average, prices declined by -0.1% month-on-month April 2019.
Inflation Monitor | April 2019 Read More »
Organising young workers: How are unions faring in South Africa?
SACCAWU shop steward, Bongani Mkhize (35), has tips for organising and involving young workers in trade unions.
Organising young workers: How are unions faring in South Africa? Read More »
History of activism on LGBT rights in South Africa
South Africa’s Constitution was the first in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation. Learn how we got here.
History of activism on LGBT rights in South Africa Read More »
Tell them you know how much the boss is really earning
South African MNCs in Africa: Bargaining with Multinationals guide shows union negotiators how to make better use of information on company revenue, profits and directors’ pay.
Tell them you know how much the boss is really earning Read More »
Inflation Monitor | March 2019
The headline inflation rate increased to 4.5% in March 2019 compared to 4.1% in February 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.8% month-on-month March 2019.
Inflation Monitor | March 2019 Read More »
Handling grievances – tips for shop stewards
Defending workers from injustices and ill-treatment ensures union members remain interested and active.
Handling grievances – tips for shop stewards Read More »
Financial reporting – 15 key terms to get you started
What do the terms ‘depreciation’ and ‘amortisation’ mean? What does a non-executive director of a company do? Our new guide contains some basic financial terms that every union negotiator needs to know.
Financial reporting – 15 key terms to get you started Read More »
Building safer communities for LGBTI people in South Africa
Useful information on LGBT issues and tips for labour organisations looking to better support their members who are LGBT.
Building safer communities for LGBTI people in South Africa Read More »
Inflation Monitor | February 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 4.1% in February 2019 compared to 4% in January 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.8% month-on-month in February 2019.
Inflation Monitor | February 2019 Read More »
A practical guide for LGBTI workers in South Africa
This booklet provides accurate information for LGBTI+ workers, their trade unions and employers.
A practical guide for LGBTI workers in South Africa Read More »
Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2019
Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for role players in collective bargaining in South Africa.
Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2019 Read More »
Industry wage settlements in 2019 | Q1
The highest percentage increase on actual wages in Q3 of 2018 was recorded in mining and quarrying industries, at 8%.
Industry wage settlements in 2019 | Q1 Read More »
MNC Trends Report 2018
The annual MNC Trends Report provides key information concerning the performance, operations and governance of JSE-listed South African multinational companies operating in Africa.
MNC Trends Report 2018 Read More »
Inflation Monitor | January 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 4% in January 2019, compared to 4.5% in December 2018. On average, prices increased by 0.5% between January 2019 and December 2018.
Inflation Monitor | January 2019 Read More »
Decent standard of living index | Final report
This research presents a Decent Standard of Living (DSL) and a (DSLI) for South Africa. The 2018 study found that a monthly income of around R7,000 per person is associated with a decent standard of living.
Decent standard of living index | Final report Read More »
Decent standard of living (Infographic)
A crucial link exists between the right to a decent standard of life and the right to dignity, which is guaranteed in Section 10 of the South African Constitution.
Decent standard of living (Infographic) Read More »