8 October, 2014On 7 October, the Somali Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MOLSA), the Somali Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) and the Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) jointly called for social justice and decent jobs for all Somalis.
The World Day for Decent Work was a great opportunity for the tripartite partners (trade unions, employers and government) to stress their cooperation to achieve a decent work agenda. Success comes through partnership, participation and negotiation, and this joint position of tripartite partners is a strong cooperation.
MOLSA, SCCI and FESTU believe that the notion of decent work is based on the belief that work is not merely a source of income but is essentially a source of personal dignity, family stability, peace in the community, and economic growth for the entire nation that expands opportunities for productive jobs and employment.
For the first time on this occasion of the WDDW, MOLSA, SCCI and FESTU have come together in a spirit of social dialogue and consultation so that the goal of decent work for all becomes a reality in the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Somalia needs rights-based and people-centred development. Workplaces and working people are the essence of the social pillar. It is through opportunities for decent work that many of those today trapped in poverty can have access to sustainable livelihoods. It is also by making workplaces safe and healthy that Somali people can meet their needs in acceptable conditions.
MOLSA, SCCI and FESTU collectively call for an end to precarious work and reform of labour code of Somalia in compliance with international labour standards.
The tripartite partners sent a strong message that decent work is the foundation of a decent life and a strong and equitable Somalia.