. Calls for upholding workers’ right to unionization
ADDIS ABABA – The Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions (CETU) announced that it will firmly work to safeguard peace and stability across the country aside from working to ensure workers’ right to unionization and bargain.
In connection with this year’s International Workers Day, CETU President Kassahun Follo told The Ethiopian Herald that the trade unions have to play due role in supporting the efforts to ensure sustainable nationwide peace and spreading democracy.
As to him, CETU has been upholding workers’ rights and interests through the formation of strong trade unions since its establishment in 1963.
He, however, said workers’ right to unionization have still remained as a major challenge. “Some employers don’t allow or encourage their employees to form trade unions yet.”
Regarding a minimum wage floor, he indicated that national efforts are underway to introduce minimum wages as stipulated under labor policy of Ethiopia. “We have been campaigning for minimum wage floor in a bid to address the existing income inequalities. We have submitted a draft proclamation on minimum wage to the council of ministers and the confederation is looking forward to hearing the establishment of minimum wage floor soon.”
During the interview, Kassahun underlined the need for giving timely responses to labor exploitation in industrial parks and manufacturing factories.
“Employees that are being hired in manufacturing and alike sectors are paid up to 750 Birr per month which is nowhere near to the minimum livable wage.”
He, therefore, said the confederation is working to raise the wages of workers in various industrial parks working hand in glove with their trade unions.
This year’s International Workers’ Day or May Day will be marked for 130th time at international level and for 44th time at a national level with the theme: “Peace a Base for National Unity, Workers’ Unionization and All Round Development.”
The Day will be celebrated at Jimma town at national level with various sport events apart from observing it with series of panel discussions on economic and social challenges in all over the country.
The Ethiopian Herald April 30/2011
BY FASICA BERHANE
