15 January, 2025In the beautiful island nation of Mauritius, known for its stunning beaches and luxury tourism, a less visible narrative has been unfolding within textile factories that is staining its landscape. The Confederation of Mauritian Trade Unions (CTSP) is making groundbreaking strides to protect and empower the often-overlooked migrant workers crucial to the industry's success. IndustriALL looks at how the CTSP is turning the tide for these workers, fostering an environment of equality and safety in a sector fraught with challenges.
Mauritius has seen quite an industrial revolution in the textile sector, a field that "has spearheaded the structural transformation of the Mauritian economy," according to Shayn Ishwaren, a representative from the CTSP-SINNASSAMY. The industry is a major economic engine, generating substantial foreign direct investment, creating numerous jobs, and positioning Mauritius as a key exporter to major markets including the U.S., Europe, and South Africa.
However, beneath this shiny exterior lies a stark reality faced by migrant workers, who often suffer from discriminatory practices and unequal treatment.
"We've seen that more and more workers are suffering from discriminatory laws,"
Ishwaren explains, highlighting the plight of these workers, particularly women, in the textile sector.
The demographic shifts in Mauritius have exacerbated the situation. As the local youth migrate overseas in pursuit of better opportunities, the resulting labour void is filled by migrants who, while crucial, are often left vulnerable under national policies.
"This has created a lack of labour in Mauritius, and to fill in that void, the Mauritian government is encouraging the influx of migrant workers,"
Ishwaren notes, outlining the demographic crisis fuelling this dependency on migrant labour.
Addressing these challenges, the CTSP has managed to bring hope to a problem that seems insurmountable. They have implemented innovative strategies to support these workers, starting with free union membership for all contractual, migrant, and precarious workers.
"What happens is that we built a solid solidarity chain that is implemented by local workers when they contribute to our union,"
Ishwaren says, emphasizing the collective effort to uplift every worker.
Language barriers and legal complexities further complicate the lives of migrant workers. The CTSP combats this by ensuring that migrants have access to vital information and support. "One thing that I do when I welcome one migrant worker is always end by telling him or her to go back to their dormitory, to go back to the factory and spread the word," Ishwaren shares, illustrating the grassroots approach the union takes to educate and empower.
In recent years, the CTSP has also achieved significant legislative victories that protect migrant workers’ rights.
"We had a simple word in legislation that has created big obstacles for migrant workers. We've lobbied to change legislation to add employer-employee relationship. And this made the huge difference,"
Ishwaren proudly states, referencing the transformative impact of their advocacy.
Moreover, the union's proactive stance against the unfair deportation of workers and their efforts to establish the Migrant Resource Centre (MRC) with the support of ASOS, Antislavery international and IndustriALL Global Union, underscore their comprehensive support system. The MRC serves as a safe haven where migrants can seek help and information, free from the threats of violence and discrimination.
Shayn Ishwaren at a demo in Mauritius to stop the genocide in Palestine. Credit: CTSP
The efforts of the CTSP in Mauritius highlight a powerful narrative of resilience and solidarity in the face of systemic challenges. Through persistent advocacy, legislative victories, and grassroots mobilization, the union is not only protecting but also empowering migrant workers who help sustain one of the country’s key economic sectors. As Mauritius continues to evolve, the role of the CTSP remains crucial in ensuring that the rights and dignity of every worker are upheld, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable environment.