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3 years ago
Worker rights: Wages and conditions of employment
A shop steward’s guide to finding out who is covered by bargaining council agreements, sectoral determinations and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act.
Category: Articles
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3 years ago
The future of retail in Kenya – How are retail workers affected by technological changes?
Mike Oranga, Assistant Secretary General of the Kenya Union of Commercial, Food and Allied Workers (KUCFAW) says more workers are employed as “flexi-timers” and may struggle to adapt to new technologies.
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3 years ago
Wage calculator – New LRS online tool for workers
Our new wage calculator will tell you how much a percentage increase is an amount of money and help you understand the effect of inflation on the wage increase.
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3 years ago
Organising strategies: Using a global framework agreement to organise Shoprite workers
Can a global framework agreement help a union to organise? For Swaziland Commercial and Allied Workers Union, the answer is a resounding yes.
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3 years ago
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies
Trade union bargaining strategies in South African multinational companies: A review of revenue, profits and directors’ fees in the transport sector.
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3 years ago
The future of retail in South Africa
How are retail workers in South Africa affected by technological changes? Read our interview with Joyfull Mnguni of the South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union (SACCAWU), and know the possible trade union responses to these challenges.
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3 years ago
Basic guide to unfair labour practices
Identifying unfair labour practices – a quick recap of Section 185 of the Labour Relations Act.
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3 years ago
The right way to handle retrenchments
It’s crunch time for trade unions as more workers face retrenchments by companies navigating the impact of the covid-19 pandemic. Here’s a recap of section 189 of the LRA to get you up to speed.
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3 years ago
Bargaining Benchmarks – Directors’ Fees Edition
Our latest Directors’ Fees Report delves into the remuneration of directors in 78 South African Multinational Corporations and confirms what we’ve always known: that there’s an astronomical gap between the pay of bosses and workers.
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3 years ago
A facilitator’s reflection on old methods and new lessons for ending school-related gender-based violence in Africa
Nina Benjamin, LRS Gender Equality Programme Leader, takes stock of her role supporting teacher trade unions in sub-Saharan Africa to create safe schools.
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3 years ago
The possible discriminatory consequences of a mandatory workplace covid-19 vaccination policy
The possible discriminatory consequences of a mandatory covid-19 vaccination policy at the workplace.
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3 years ago
Building diversity and inclusion in trade unions and the workplace
What do we need to create safe and inclusive trade unions and workplaces free of homophobia? Trade union activists who have consciousness, passion, knowledge and skills to advocate for the rights of workers who are LGBT+.
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3 years ago
How to negotiate with employers during difficult times
The company you’re bargaining with is in a genuine crisis and can’t afford any salary increases. What should be in your counter-proposal?
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3 years ago
Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2021
Our series of benchmarks will help trade union negotiators to enter into bargaining processes as informed role players.
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3 years ago
Questions and answers about the national minimum wage review – An interview with Trenton Elsely, Commissioner, National Minimum Wage Commission
“The minimum wage is a victory for ultra-low wage workers. We have an established floor where there was none before, and we can raise that floor and ensure that no worker is left behind,” says Trenton Elsely, Commissioner, National Minimum Wage Commission.
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3 years ago
8 labour market trends for trade unions to watch in 2021
Some of the key areas trade unions can direct their energy and resources in 2021.
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3 years ago
The Future of Work: Covid-19 Edition
The covid-19 pandemic fast-tracked some of the predicted changes in the world of work. Learn what the changes may mean for workers in African multinational companies.
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3 years ago
The new national minimum wage for South Africa is R21.69 per hour
The new minimum wage is R21.69 per hour, an increase of 4.5%. The minimum wage for domestic workers is still below the national wage at R19.09.
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3 years ago
How teacher unions can prevent violence in schools in Africa
This document draws on the experience of nine education trade unions that want to end school-related gender-based violence in their contexts.
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3 years ago
Future of Work: How should we respond?
Some basic principles for unions to follow as they anticipate the impact of the changing nature of work on organising and bargaining.
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3 years ago
How to become an effective shop steward during the covid-19 crisis
The new workplace issues presented by the covid-19 pandemic require shop stewards to be proficient with the guidelines and direction for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS).
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4 years ago
Behavioural change in the workplace: Health and safety training manual for trade union educators
This training manual is for educators in unions to use as a guide for training and supporting shop stewards on staying safe in workplaces during Covid-19 and beyond.
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4 years ago
Covid-19 support measures for workers in South Africa
Business as usual for trade unions went out of the window in 2020. Unions had to alter how they delivered value to their members and recruited new ones.
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4 years ago
Online course: creating gender equality in the workplace
This online course designed by the LRS for the Online Learning Academy of International Federation of Workers’ Education Associations (IFWEA) is for activists who want to facilitate gender equality education programmes.
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4 years ago
The living wage is dead, Long live the living wage!
This one goes out to the trade unionists and anyone else who understands that what few gains the working class have made, they have made through struggle.
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4 years ago
A step by step approach to collective bargaining for gender equity
Learn a simple step by step approach to bargaining for gender equity in the workplace.
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4 years ago
A Guide to Winning Strikes
Strike laws and rights, and ideas for an effective plan.
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4 years ago
Collective bargaining agreements during covid-19
Can trade unions continue to successfully negotiate protections for workers in uncertain times?
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
ILO Convention 190: a game-changer in ending violence and harassment in the world of work
Participants at FEDUSA’s webinar on gender-based violence urged the government to ratify ILO C190 against violence in the world of work.
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4 years ago
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
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4 years ago
The value of labour after the pandemic
Bárbara Figueroa, president of Chile’s Central Union of Workers, argues for the need to reflect on and review our practices as a labour movement and as a species.
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4 years ago
Transformative women’s leadership in the time of COVID-19
“The pandemic has prompted us to explore alternative models of leadership that are not militaristic, patriarchal, or undemocratic.” – Crecentia Mofokeng, Regional Representative for Africa, Building and Wood Workers’ International
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4 years ago
What the pandemic reveals about women’s activism and feminism
Lorraine Ndlovu, President of the Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Associations and StreetNet International, on how the COVID-19 pandemic affected her activism and leadership.
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4 years ago
Amazon into Africa: Why you should care
Amazon announced it’d would hire 3000 people in South Africa to work ‘virtually’ in various roles. But what does this mean and why should you care?
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
Technology is a powerful determinant of change, but labour can shape its direction
The impact of new technology on the future of work in the automotive manufacturing industry – a case study of NUMSA’s work at Volkswagen Group, focusing on the role of the union in saving jobs.
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
Workers hit hard in level three lockdown
Both private and public sector workers continue to bear the brunt of the Covid-19 lockdown, despite eased restrictions and some industries opening.
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4 years ago
UIF covid-19 relief fund: Using the law to get wins for workers
Vulnerable workers in South Africa face destitution in the absence of a viable channel for individual applications to the UIF’s covid-19 Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme.
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
June is Pride Month
Despite the progressive laws, workers who are LGBTI+ continue to experience violence and discrimination.
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4 years ago
How are African trade unions responding to Covid-19 pandemic? 10 key points in a new report
Practical suggestions for emergency online solutions for trade unions.
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
Answers to many of your questions about the operations of the CCMA during the covid-19 lockdown
Do I require a permit to travel to the CCMA? Will cases be heard at plant level? What if my boss refuses to consent to online-based hearing? Get the answers to your questions straight from CCMA director, Cameron Morajane.
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4 years ago
Beyond covid-19 lockdowns
African countries must ensure functioning economies where jobs are secured and trade unions are fully involved in decision-making.
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4 years ago
Secure in insecurity: Organising workers in South Africa’s private security industry
Amazing things can happen when a diverse group of worker representatives is given a safe space to be themselves. A safe space is good for learning, trying new roles and building solidarity.
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4 years ago
Workers’ Day 2020
Workers’ Day 2020 message from the Executive Director of Labour Research Service, Trenton Elsely.
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4 years ago
A tribute to care workers on International Workers Day
Let’s acknowledge, value and celebrate the paid and unpaid care work of women across the globe.
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4 years ago
“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.
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4 years ago
Retail industry after covid-19
Economists have predicted massive job losses in South Africa due to covid-19 pandemic. But what does this mean for the retail sector?
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4 years ago
COVID-19: Implications for retail sector
As one of the few businesses allowed to operate in South Africa during the covid-19 lockdown, are retailers doing enough to ensure protection and fair compensation of workers?
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4 years ago
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?
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4 years ago
Double lockdown
How do we slow the spread of Covid-19 without shutting down the livelihoods of poor households?
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
COVID-19: Implications for domestic workers in South Africa
At the mercy of their employers, domestic workers in South Africa have little legal recourse in cases of unfair and inhumane treatment.
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4 years ago
Covid-19 is locking down livelihoods
Support working class families in South Africa through the covid-19 pandemic.
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
COVID-19 and world of work: Impacts and responses
The ILO’s preliminary assessment concerning the possible impacts of coronavirus on the world of work proposes a range of policy options to mitigate these impacts and facilitate strong recovery.
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4 years ago
Coronavirus and workers in South Africa: Know your rights and responsibilities
The spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and subsequent government reactions have both employees and employers uncertain. Know your rights as a worker.
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
The head, heart and hands of worker education today
We come into the learning process as full people with our thinking and critical reflection, feelings and emotions and our readiness to engage in action.
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4 years ago
What have we learned about trade union organising in changing workplaces?
With the rising inequality in South Africa, strong trade unions are a force for good in society. Here’s why unions need to invest more in organising and recruitment.
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4 years ago
Recruiting workers to the trade union: Tips for organisers
Trade union recruitment in South Africa is lax, yet the strength of organisations largely depends on growing membership. Here’s an effective approach to recruiting members.
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4 years ago
South African multinational corporations in Africa – Sectoral reports
We analysed 14 economic sectors in South Africa to provide trade unions with strategic research that can help them influence corporate governance in big companies to protect workers.
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4 years ago
National Minimum Wage Commission Progress Report
Key insights, challenges, progress and prospects of the national minimum wage in South Africa.
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4 years ago
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.
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4 years ago
Know your basic rights in the workplace
South Africa’s constitution and the various labour laws protect workers. Workers who know about their rights are better able to protect themselves. Know your rights.
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4 years ago
16 priority demands for collective bargaining
Worker representatives have identified the priority demands that will strengthen the collective bargaining agreements covering millions of workers in South Africa.
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4 years ago
Women workers in South Africa and the battle for equality
Twenty-five years after Beijing, there’s progress for women workers in South Africa but major challenges remain.
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5 years ago
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.
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5 years ago
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.
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5 years ago
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.
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5 years ago
Ideas for trade union growth in South Africa
National Negotiator at SADTU, Shiyinduku Twala, says trade unions need to adapt to the changing workplace if they hope to remain effective.
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5 years ago
A marriage not made in heaven
A trade union activist’s personal tragedy sparked a flame that’s helping to fuel the fight against school-related gender-based violence in Sierra Leone. #EndSRGBV
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5 years ago
Learning through reflection is an act of human struggle
Trade union activists in Zambia used reflection to track the progress and impact of an initiative to address gender-based violence in schools in the Southern African country.
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5 years ago
A right to learn without fear: working to end school-related gender-based violence in schools
School-Related Gender-Based Violence is violence that undermines the bodily integrity, human rights, and gender equality of all those involved in the school but primarily that of the school child.
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5 years ago
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?
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5 years ago
The fourth industrial revolution risks leaving women behind
South Africa’s labour market is more favourable to men than to women, and the fourth industrial revolution may widen the gap, writes Dr Rachel Adams, Research Specialist at Human Sciences Research Council.
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5 years ago
The Issue of Dignity in Health Facilities in South Africa
The key infrastructure challenges for community health care workers in South Africa who form part of the Ward Based Primary Health Outreach Teams.
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5 years ago
How does Massmart treat workers in Africa?
Trade unions in the retail sector in Africa have found ways of working together and with unions globally to ensure decent work in multinational corporations.
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5 years ago
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.
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5 years ago
Many jobs in South Africa could soon be automated, and the country isn’t prepared
Dr Daniel B. le Roux investigates the impact of automation on economies in the developing world.
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5 years ago
Ending violence and harassment in the world of work is a union issue
Trade unions campaigned for ILO Convention 190 on ending violence and harassment in the world of work. The challenge now is getting the governments to ratify the convention.
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5 years ago
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.
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5 years ago
There are more ways to live a decent life than just through money
South Africa’s government has struggled for many years to develop the right policies to beat poverty.
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5 years ago
Supporting collective bargaining for workers in precarious forms of employment
What will it take for worker leaders and the LRS to create resources that support collective bargaining for workers in precarious forms of employment?
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5 years ago
Strong trade unions can help reduce inequality in South Africa
NUMSA negotiator, Oupa Sifume, says collective bargaining in South Africa is under attack and only strong unions can deliver on the mandates from workers to reduce inequality in our society.
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5 years ago
A life without struggle in South Africa is achievable
In among all the numbers, we have lost sight of dignity, and our value and worth as human beings. So how do we bring dignity back into the equation?
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5 years ago
Chinese multinational corporations in Africa: what’s the trade union response?
Trade unions in Africa are aware of the need to develop strategies for responding to Chinese multinational corporations operating on the continent.
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5 years ago
A teachers’ union is determined to end violence in schools
Our interview with Dorcus Sekabate, the Vice President of Gender at the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), reminds us that violence in schools is a global tragedy.
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5 years ago
Women unionists are learning how to be heard
UNTU’s Siphiweokuhle Sithole, 31, is among the women unionists fighting to instil cultures of gender equality in workplaces in South Africa.
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5 years ago
A band of male comrades united for women
FEDUSA’s Babongile Dumani is a male champion supporting the rights of working women in southern Africa.
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5 years ago
Is this what a decent life looks like?
Despite a long-running debate on poverty and inequality in South Africa, we haven’t had a robust measure of what it is to live decently. Until now.
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5 years ago
Overlooked no more: Could this be the new reality for domestic workers in South Africa?
At the centre of a landmark court ruling last month was the rights of about a million domestic workers. Union leader, Pinky Mashiane (pictured, centre), says the road ahead is still long
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5 years ago
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.
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5 years ago
Creating a model inclusive collective bargaining agreement
What will it take to negotiate for all workers across formal and informal and workplaces taking into account their different needs, roles and identities?
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5 years ago
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.
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5 years ago
What will it take to build LGBT inclusive workplaces in South Africa?
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) workers continue to experience discrimination, harassment and violence. How grave is the issue in South Africa? Learn more…
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