UASA Media Release: 08 June 2023
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
The 2023 International Labour Conference (ILC), hosted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), is underway in Geneva, Switzerland.
The conference brings together worker, employer and government delegates from the ILO’s 187 member states to address a wide range of issues, including a just transition towards sustainable and inclusive economies, quality apprenticeships, and labour protection.
Through its affiliation with FEDUSA, UASA is pleased to be part of this powerful global platform. It allows UASA to continue positively impacting the just transition process in South Africa on behalf of our members and all workers.
UASA CEO Jacques Hugo says the main focus is ensuring no worker is left behind in the Just Transition process. Additionally, he says the Just Transition process must significantly contribute to our industries’ and economy’s growth and sustainability. Hugo represents FEDUSA at the conference.
The expected outcomes of the general discussion from the ILC are conclusions and a resolution to provide further guidance for the organisation. These desired outcomes are to:
- Confirm the need for urgent action to promote and accelerate a just transition towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies for all at the global, regional, national and sectoral level.
- Reaffirm the guiding principles and key policy areas of the ILO guidelines for a just transition towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies for all.
- Discuss the critical role of industrial policies and technology in tackling climate and environmental change while promoting decent work.
- Adopt a road map of key elements for more concerted, coherent and better-coordinated pathways towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies, leading to decent work and social justice.
At its final sitting, the General Discussion Committee on a Just Transition is expected to adopt an outcome document that will be submitted to the plenary of the conference for adoption.
This is the 111th session of the International Labour Conference and will continue until 16 June 2023.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.