Platform drivers in Nepal organising

 “We have been focusing on how to organize app based drivers, and we now have 800 to 900 members in only 6 months. This is new, we do this mainly through personal contacts, but it is very hard to gather and reach them, they are very busy and scattered. We need material to share with them, to explain what the union can do for them. For now, we focus on individual cases and assist them with problems, but we need to start collective bargaining, towards the companies, the city authorities and the social security. For now, we can only try to find solutions for problems ourselves, like help each other in case of accidents, or talk to traffic police if somebody got fined, but we need to start speaking in a strong, collective voice!”

“My friend told me to start working as driver. I had to take a loan to buy a bike, and it took me over two years to reimburse it. Every day I earn around 10€ but I just can’t manage to save anything. We need to buy a private insurance through our platform, which covers the driver and the passenger in case of a road accident, with our medical expenses covered up to 100.000NPR or 670€. No repairs to the motorbike are covered, so this we have to provide from our own pocket. Another issue is that sometimes, when we arrive for pick up, the passenger is carrying a baby or a small child and will insist to bring it, and we have no other choice. But if an accident happens, the child will not be insured.

We are not provided with any uniform or sign from our platform that we are drivers, so the police do not recognize us as workers or that it is our job. We get fined, sometimes without knowing the reason. Sometimes the union can help us with that. We really want them to help us. The city officials provides no facilities for us: we are chased if we have to stand and wait for clients, there are hardly any public restrooms or places we can get drinking water. There is also tensions with other, not-app taxi drivers who sees us a competitors, even in the trade union and this has even led to protests and demonstrations.”

NTUC observes International Youth Day 2024

On 12th August 2024, Kathmandu, the Nepal Trade Union Congress Youth Committee marked the International Youth Day, as sign of solidarity for prospect and progress for the youth internationally.

A short morning rally with banners and flags started from Maitighar Mandala and ended in New Baneshwor,w here it was followed by a street dialogue.  The slogan of this year's Youth Day was "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development".  In the rally, NTUC high officials attending included the Senior Vice President, Vice Presidents, General Secretary, Deputy General Secretary, trade union leaders from different sectors and fields, with youth and women. 

The street dialogue, chaired by Dipendra Sunar, President of the NTUC National Youth Committee, had as its chief guest Nepali Congress Party Deputy General Secretary Jeevan Pariyar and youth leader and Member of Parliament. He stated: “We are very conscious about youth issues. Recently, we are very engaged in amendment of the bill related Electronic Transactions Act 2063 based on the changing context of Nepal to ensure the reliability and security of electronic transactions including the control of unauthorized use of electronic records or alteration in such records through illegal manner". Pariyar also promised to share youth issues in the upcoming Central Committee meeting of the Nepali Congress Party. 

President of Nepal Trade Union Congress (NTUC) and currently of JTUCC Yogendra Kumar Kunwar said “Nepal has been facing different challenges, with youth migration one of them. We should pay our more attention to control it by creating decent job in the country”. Solidarity Centre Country Director Luna Ranjit expressed her solidarity and joy to be part of the youth program of Young NTUC- Nepal.  President of Nepal Student Union, Dujang Sherpa said: “We are persistently lobbying for more than fifty percent youth representation in the policy making and other state structure.” He also ensured that this will be happening soon here. Various issues were raised by the participants like youth migration, the youth welfare fund and its implementation, skills and youth employment, which the guests answered.

My Journey as a Home Worker: Empowerment, Challenges, and Triumphs - Nepal 2023

My name is Laxmi Pradhan Shrestha, and I am a 44-year-old woman residing in Naikap in Kathmandu. As an active member of the Nepal Home Workers Union, affiliated with the Nepal Trade Union Congress (NTUC), my life has been a tapestry of struggles, growth, and resilience.

The Struggle for Workers’ Rights

When I first joined the home worker’s union, I was an ordinary woman from a regular family. Like many others, the income I earned through my work was barely enough to support my family. But being part of the union opened my eyes to the rights of workers. I realized that we deserved better—better wages, better working conditions, and better opportunities.

Balancing Union Work and Family

As I actively participated in various union activities—May Day rallies, meetings, and conferences—I faced a delicate balancing act. While I fought for workers’ rights, tensions arose at home. My in-laws, who lived with me, closely monitored my household affairs whenever I was away for union work. Conflicts ensued, but I persevered.

Skill Development and Income Generation

The union provided training on income generation and skill development. I seized this opportunity, eager to enhance my small-scale business. From knitting sweaters to making caps, spinning yarn, creating garlands, and preparing pickles at home, I honed my skills. Gradually, appreciation flowed in, and local shops started buying my products. I even sold my handmade items in Kathmandu’s bustling Asan area.

 A Positive Shift in My Life

With improved skills and growing confidence, my income began to rise. No longer solely dependent on my in-laws, I could better support my children’s education and maintain our health. Life took a positive turn. Recently, at the World Social Forum (WSF), our union supported me in setting up a stall to sell our products, providing additional income.

Navigating the Pandemic and engagement in Social Protection schemes

The COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges, but I adapted. My business weathered the storm, and I remained self-employed. The Nepalese government’s initiatives for social security among self-employed women like me give hope. We’ve expressed our desire to local government offices, advocating for our inclusion in these programs. Security and protection are essential for our well-being.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on my journey, I am content. Yet, I look ahead with determination. The path to empowerment is ongoing. I dream of a future where self-employed women like me receive the support they deserve. Let us weave a stronger fabric of resilience, unity, and progress.

Strength in numbers: achievements by the Nepali partners in 2023

Labour rights: In total over 80.000 people, of which 32% women and 16% under 35 years, were reached by services from the Nepali partners to promote labour standards.

NTUC reached 73.645 (30% women and 11% younger than 35 years) and GEFONT ensured 6.436 workers (50% women and 67% younger than 35 years) became more aware of their rights though campaigns and public outreach. Empowering young workers, GEFONT also organised 14 one day trainings for 1516 new members (657 female and 1351 under 35 years) in all 7 Nepali provinces.

Social Security: nearly 57.906 workers (46% women and 64% under 35 years) were reached by the services of the trade unions to ensure coverage of workers in the contributory Social Security Fund.

Vocational training: 72 people received vocational skill training on tailoring and embroidery, and self-employment from NTUC.

INSP!R Network
Advocacy: Over 99 policy makers were met , CSOs and trade union members showed their public support for 11 policy documents and position papers, as well as one research on the Integrated Social Protection framework. 

INSP!R Nepal and its CSOs and trade unions members contributed to two key regulations being passed:

1. New Social Security working procedures were passed to cover self-employed, informal and migrant workers.

2. Integrated Social Protection Framework: developed by the National Planning Commission, which tackles Shock Responsive Social Protection aspects, determines provincial and local level roles in social protection and ensures more harmony among the schemes and ministries involved. During the drafting, WSM partners were actively involved and beginning 2024, the Framework was endorsed by the Nepali Cabinet of Minsters.

Learning: In 2023, 471 CSOs and trade union leaders were trained to promote social protection, including through steering committee meetings.

Passing laws, ensuring young and women leadership in trade unions - Nepal in 2019

The next generation needs to ensure trade unions leadership, therefore General Federation of Nepalese Trade Unions (GEFONT) chose to invest in the organizing of workers below 35, since they are the future. “I’m Geeta (34) and I have two children. I have been working in an aluminium industry since the past 14 years. I started working at the age of 20. At that time, I had no idea about trade union rights, workers’ rights or women rights. In 2004 I got the opportunity to participate in a programme organized by GEFONT. I really got inspired and started raising awareness among my co-workers. In 2006, I became the GEFONT representative for my enterprise and in 2010 I became the Whole Industry Trade Union Nepal (WHIN) district committee member (blue collar workers) and secretary.”

Dilli, 38 years old, is fighting, together with Nepal Trade Union Congress (NTUC), for better wages and better working conditions. “I have a very poor family background: I have 4 children, a disabled father and a mother with a chronic disease.  I’ve been working in an Ilam Dairy Product Cooperative since 2004, with a total salary of 2.000 NPR (15 EUR). I used to work 12 hours a day, without any leave or other welfare support. My salary was way too low to fulfil the basic needs of my family, as well as to pay medicines for my parents. I asked my management several times for an increase, but it was denied over and over again”.
That’s why he consulted WSM partner, local trade union, NTUC. An NTUC district committee carefully listened to his grievances and they involved him in different programs and activities of the Union. Finally, in 2017, with the initiation of NTUC, his salary was increased to the level of the minimum wage of 9.700 NPR (73,50 EUR). For long, the minimum wages fell far below the amount needed to satisfy the family subsistence. In 2018 the legal minimum wage was revised and increased to 13.450 NPR (101,90 EUR). However, regular monitoring of the implementation of the wages is very important. In case of Nepal, this aspect is fully absent. Workers in enterprises or sectors where union is absent or weak are still compelled to work for a wage that is insufficient to earn a living. Dili for example did again not receive the increased minimum wage. That’s why NTUC made a second request to revise his wage in the beginning of 2019. Thanks to their support, he is now receiving it.

As became clear in the above example, NTUC has been organizing various policy dialogues and policy level intervention activities. They organized their workers through its regular activities, such as May Day, International Women Day, the International Occupational Health and Safety Day, Decent Work Day, Youth Day, etc. They focused on organizing and campaigning. Because of these and other efforts, NTUC and GEFONT have managed a very respectable increase of membership of 100.000 members in the past three years, of which the overwhelming majority are women and under 35 years old!

Nepal - COVID-19: Workers getting protection

Both NTUC and GEFONT started out with organizing assistance and hygiene awareness programmes for their members. Since the lock down in Nepal,  more recently they have also provided food relief to their members in need, mostly informal or day workers.

More importantly, both trade unions also advocated for the Government of Nepal to support workers affected by the pandemic. The Government followed their demands and announced a relief package on the 29th of March, including measures such as:

1. Government shall pay 31 percent of basic salary needed to pay to the Social security Fund by employer and employee and employer shall pay remaining amount only to the employees;
2. Employer should not cut salary of employee during the pandemic ensued lockdown;
3. Local government should manage and provide food during the lock-down to all daily waged and informal economy workers;
4. Private school fees for this month may not be paid by workers. 

The government also declared that the treatment for people infected by COVID-19 shall be done free of cost. However, some believe this package to be unclear and implementation to be unsure. M Ajay Kumar, Steering Committee member for Nepal also highlighted the issue of transport workers in an open letter to the Prime Minister.

Video made by GEFONT (in Nepali) to raise awareness among workers regarding the virus

WSM new partner in Nepal, the Social Protection Civil Society Network (SPCSN) has started broadcasting public announcements on the radio (Community Information Network) all over Nepal to increase public awareness for prevention measures. They have also signed a joint appeal regarding specific measures to be taken for children and other vulnerable categories.

ILO overview of COVID-19 measures implemented by governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and the ILO for Nepal: link

Nepal: WSM to involve civil society for EU project with ILO and UNICEF on social protection floors

WSM has been mandated to involve Nepali civil society in an EU funded pilot project in which ILO and UNICEF work with the Nepali government to promote the social protection floors. These floors focus on four main aspects from the ILO R202: access to health, child allowances, elderly and income for the active population. While the WSM longstanding partners in Nepal, the trade unions, have worked very hard in the past years on the contributory social security act which focuses on the fourth part, this project is the opportunity to reach out to other civil society organisations and social movements to truly adopt the multi-stakeholder approach WSM is known for.

What has happened so far?
After some initial introductory meetings with ILO and UNICEF, WSM convened two stakeholders meetings on 18th and 26th of November with two main partners:

1. the Social Protection Civil Society Network (SPCSN), gathering 19 CSOs and 
2. ITUC-NAC: umbrella organisation of the three Nepali trade unions affiliated to ITUC, which is already the WSM partner in charge of the Nepal synergy.

With the slogan "From bottom to top, from floor to ceiling!", during the first meeting with 34 participants, we explained the context of this project, and they agreed on a number of values and vision regarding social protection, which came from the ANRSP Position Paper on Social Protection. They made suggestions of priorities for advocacy (what the Nepali government should do) and activities (what CSOs could do that is most relevant).  They also designated a steering group of eight people (two per cluster: health, children, active population and elderly). This Steering Group met twice to draft a work plan that was then shared during the second stakeholders meeting on 26th of November with 42 participants.

The next day, 27th of November, Nepal's National Day of Social Security, the trade unions mobilised for an event with the Nepali government regarding the contributory Social Security Fund, which fell right in the middle of the ILO Global Week on Social Protection where WSM also attended with 35 delegates.

At the level of Nepal, at the request of UNICEF, WSM also provided feedback on draft ToR for a consultant to be hired by UNICEF at the request of the National Planning Commission to work on an Integrated Framework for Social Protection.

Who has been involved?
This is the list of some of the 54 organisations attending, stakeholders of the (still informal) Nepal Network on the Right to Social Protection: Action Aid Nepal, Alliance for Social Dialogue, ANTUF, Children and Women in Social Services and Human Rights (CWISH), Collective Campaign for Peace (CoCAP), Anamnagar, Community Self Reliance Center (CSRC), Dalit NGO Federation, Federation of Community Forestry Users Group, Food-first Information and Action Network, Freelancer, Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES), General Federation of Nepalese Trade Unions (GEFONT), Himalayan Nepal Foundation, Home Based Workers Concern Society Nepal, HomeNet Nepal, Integrated Development Society - Nepal, International Trade Unions Confederation - Nepal Affiliated Centers (ITUC-NAC), Jagaran Media Center, Jagriti Child and Youth Concern Nepal, Japan International Labour Foundation, Loo Niva, Khokana, MAG, Mahila Atma Nirvarta Kendra (MANK), Media Advocacy Group, MWCSN, Nari SewaKendra (NSK), National Labour Academy, National Senior Citizens Federation (NASCIF), NDWA, Nepal Disability Women Association, Nepal Participatory Network (NEPAN), Nepal Public Health Foundation, Nepal Trade Union Congress (NTUC), Nepal Youth Foundation, NFWLHA, NGO Federation of Nepal, Niti Foundation, NNDSWO, Oxfam UK Nepal, Plan International Nepal, PossibleHealth, SAAPE, Sankalpa Nepal, SARTUC, Save the Children, Shakti Samuha, Social Protection Civil Society Network (SPCSN), Sustainable Nepal Management Consultancies, Swatantrata Abhiyan Nepal, Tuki Association Sunkoshi and Women for Human Rights (WHR).

Organizing Home Based workers in Nepal in 2018

Ms. Gayatri makes and sells plates made from leaves in one of the most iconic places of Kathmandu, Pashupatinath, a temple where deceased are incinerated. “I came to this area about 10 years ago because it became impossible to continue farming where I lived, since agricultural land became scarce in the valley. I don’t know how to read or write, but I am a strong believer, so I wanted to be near to this temple and approached the trust which manages the temple. With my colleagues, we make plates by folding leaves together, small tumbler and bowls. We sell these plates for 10NPR or 10 eurocent. Since a bundle of leaves costs us 30NPR or 30 eurocent, I only make about 110 to 200NPR (1 to 2EUR) per day. My fingers are getting very painful because of the constant folding of leaves, but since we are self-employed, it is very difficult to get medical schemes for treatment. The earthquake damaged the room where we stored the leaves though and still hasn’t been renovated, so we have to keep our leaves outside, where they are exposed to the weather or dirt. As a small trade union affiliated to Home Workers Union of Nepal (NTUC), we have to defend our trade, because the temple is considering to outsource this practice, which would mean we would lose our income.”

NTUC, traditionally a more white collar trade union, focuses more and more on the informal sector and home based workers, using vocational skill training to organize especially women.

These stories illustrate the exemplary work done by WSM partners, the trade unions in Nepal. One of the rare countries in South Asia where the trade unions work closely together and through their unity managed to pass lobby government and employers to pass important legislation regarding labour standards and social security, now also integrating the informal sector.

Nepal making strides towards social security

 While in many places, social security is under threat, in Nepal, new historic social security legislation was passed and last week they started the implementation.

In July 2017, after 18 years of lobbying by the trade unions, WSM partners, a universal social security bill was passed which has paved the way for the government to four main social security schemes. For the very first time, all those working in formal and informal sectors will be covered by unemployment, maternity, health, accident, old age and disability benefits. Workers will contribute 11%, while employers 20% and the government will ensure the management of the system.

Of course, passing legislation is an important step, but to guarantee implementation, it needs to be widely known and accepted. In an unprecedented PR move, the government took out adds in all newspapers, covering the entire first page with this news, SMS were send to subscribers, billboards were placed all over town to graphically show the four schemes. The 27th of November was declared National Social Security Day, to be celebrated yearly and offering an opportunity to yearly remind the government of its now very public commitment.

And of course, WSM partners as trade unions gathered many of their members across the country to celebrate and inform workers of these new rights, and they'll be there to help ensure the government rolls out all schemes and doesn't just stop at these four basic schemes.

Trade unions as actors for development

Over 15 representatives of Asian trade unions (of which GEFONT, NTUC, CLC and KSBSI) as well as solidarity support organisations (SSOs), of which WSM and IIWE, met in Bangkok, Thailand on 19-20 June 2018 to review, strengthen and coordinate international cooperation initiatives.

Trade unions across the world are involved in international cooperation initiatives. The TUDCN Partnerships work provides a platform for them to share best practice, coordinate their work and construct common tools to strengthen the effectiveness of this work. The TUDCN is undertaking a series of regional meetings to increase the inter-regional coordination of this work.

After Nepal gets Social Security, New Labour Act

After the Social Security passed, the New Labour Act was adopted last week by the Nepali Parliament. Following are some the reported major features:
1. Proposed law covers entire world of work including domestic workers.
2. This law has been agreed as the basic law; all employees will get wages and benefits as required by this law.
3. All forms of exploitative labour practices including child and forced labour is banned. Employers are restricted to make any agreement banning person from joining unions.
4. Employment structure is categorised as casual work, time-bound work, task based work and regular work. Whatever structure is made in employment contract- there will be no discrimination in terms of wages and benefits.
5. Basic Social protection measures such as gratuity, accidental benefits, sickness benefits, Medicare including workers saving– the provident funds is payable from day one of employment. Trainee and part time workers are also covered.
6. Outsource job is made more responsible, if the non-licensee recruiting agencies supply labour to any workplace; in principle, the employer is responsible to meet all benefits.
7. Making work appraisal transparent.
8. Without valid reasons and fulfilling lawful obligation, no one is to be fired from employment. In case of unlawful firing, the employer can be held accountable .Union leaders are protected during retrenchment.
9. Retiring age increased from 55 to 58 years.
10. Women workers enjoy better protection compared to the previous law:

• Transport facilities are to be provided if women are working in night shift;
• 98 days of maternity protection leave, 60 days paid;
• In case of miscarriage of 7 months and above pregnancy, benefit is provided as of maternity;
• There will be no discrimination based on gender;
• Strong disciplinary action proposed against harassment.

11. Social dialogue

• a. Every two years, the minimum wage is reviewed.
• b. Common bargaining committee in agreement of multi-unions on enterprise level is added besides the right to take part in CBA by the authentic union.
• c. 21 days given for bilateral negotiation and 30 days given for labour office to reconcile collective disputes. In case no agreement is signed during that time, union may call for strike by giving 30 days notice except essential service or state of emergency or dispute in EPZ or parties agreed for arbitration or government refer the case to arbitration. Much emphasis on given to arbitration in labour dispute by providing the right to government to refer the case to arbitration. However, such arbitration award may be challenged within 5 working days.
• d. The collective agreement is valid as equivalent to law for 2 years and remains valid if it is not changed by the next CBA.
• e. Strike action should not be prohibited without providing an alternative mechanism for collective dispute settlement.
• f. There is no agreement on sectoral central bargaining, though Nepal already ratified ILO convention 98.

12. Leave facilities and Paid public holidays are increased and May Day and 8 March included.
13. Existing factory inspection system is broadened to labour inspection system.
14. Mechanism such as enforcement of agreement and judgement is included.
15. Few flexible provisions of the Act may invite negative consequences if union became less smart:

• a. Contractual, time-bound categories of employment may escalate, though workers of all categories are entitled to enjoy all benefits and social protection measures.
• b. Period of trainees may extend to 1 year, however with no difference in entitlement.
• c. Retrenchment can be done in consultation of union, here union need to be more responsible.
• d. Everyone is entitled to get minimum facilities as stipulated in the law, but more than minimum can be reduced through CBA- here union needs to be smart
• e. There is fixed list for termination of the workers, however, additions can be made through CBA. If a union plays foul, there will negative consequences.

Nepal Parliament passes Social Security Bill

The Nepal Parliament on Monday ratified the much-awaited Social Security Bill, laying the groundwork for implementation of a provision on ‘no work, no pay’ as envisaged by the new Labour Bill.

The Bill, which will soon be signed into law by President Bidya Devi Bhandari, has paved the way for the government to introduce contributory and non-contributory social security schemes. This means citizens who make financial contribution every month and even those who do not make any contribution will be entitled to certain benefits.

People, who do not make any contribution, for instance, can claim for unemployment allowance, and gain access to basic healthcare services and free education till secondary level. The government will also ensure housing and food security for people who do not make any financial contribution.

The contributory social security schemes, on the other hand, are aimed at all those working in formal and informal sectors.  These schemes will entitle one to unemployment, maternity, health, accident, old age and disability benefits. The contributory social security scheme also extends benefits to those who are denied payments by employers.

Article appearing in the Kathmandu Post here.

Andre Kiekens, the SG of WSM talks about OHS in Nepal

Andre Kiekens, General Secretary of World Solidarity visited Nepal and the partners there. On the 28th of April, during the International Occupation Health and Safety Day, he made the following speech at meetings of NTUC and GEFONT.

It’s an honor for me to participate in this event regarding Occupational Safety and Health in Kathmandu. It is the first time that I have the opportunity to be in your nice country and this happening of your trade unions.
World Solidarity is the NGO of the Workers’ movement in Belgium and is proud to support the work of our Nepali friends on this important issue, through our partnership with these strong social movements.
That is also the reason why we give attention to this topic within the synergy programme of your organizations. Health and safety at work is really important everywhere in the world, which is why today, it is the International Day on Occupational Safety and Health. But in the context of Nepal, it is particularly needed, because there are a lot of challenges linked to this issue.
As you know, World Solidarity focuses on the issue of the “Right to Social Protection” and Social Protection has many dimensions. But a good social protection starts with good working conditions. Work is the base for a better life and cannot be the cause of diseases or illness. 

A few days ago we also remembered the catastrophe of Rana Plaza, which highlighted the working conditions of the garment sector in Bangladesh. This catastrophe shocked the world and raised awareness about the importance of safety and health as a real problem in the supply chain in Asia. Today, we can also refer to the same problems in working conditions in Qatar and the labour migrants.  In Europe, we are organizing campaigns to tackle these problems together with you.
I take this opportunity to congratulate your union for the very important role you are playing in the construction for a better, more equal, safe and democratic society in Nepal.
Trade unions have taken their responsibilities in the new constitution drafting, now, the draft labour law and the universal social security bill are on the agenda.
After that, implementation of these legislations will also be demanding and a tough and long process, which will require the involvement of all sectors and their companies. This is really an amazing structural route. We admire that the unions try to do this in unity. This synergy is making our voice so much stronger!
It is a good strategy for everywhere but it is even more important in a country where recently, political and social conflicts were so present.  You as actors of social dialogue and social protection are actors of peace. That’s also why WSM is ready to support your work with a new programme of collaboration for the next five years. This is not only about funding, but is also a commitment for exchanging ideas and capacity building based on shared values.
That’s also why a few months ago, we invited the leaders of the 3 ITUC affiliates (GEFONT, NTUC and ANTUF) to Brussels in November 2016 to share experiences. So our guests had the opportunity to share ideas and strategies and to learn from each other and the Belgian unions. As you can see, we are brothers in the same fight. And as your slogan, we should remember the victims together and fight for the living!
Solidarity greetings from the workers in Belgium and lots of courage and good luck with your important mission.
Namaste!

Nepal: trade unions fight for full service charge to go to workers

Major Trade Unions of Nepal expressed their solidarity to the Hotel and Tourism sector workers' demand regarding the 10 % service charge. Several social dialogues meetings took place between the Employers’, represented in the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) and the Nepal Tourism and Hotel Labourers’ Union Association from NTUC, GEFONT and ANTUF to resolve the issue but to date, the debate continues.

The major three tourism and hotel Workers unions demand the staff should get the entire amount collected in the service charge. The service charge collected from customers is currently divided between employees and the management: as per the first agreement signed in 2006, employees are getting 68 percent, while management gets 32 percent. A joint struggle committee of the associations has also been established to resolve the problem but was not heard. The service charge collection was made mandatory 12 years ago.
 
Mr. Khemraj Khadka, President, Nepal Tourism, Hotel, Casino and Restaurant Workers Union (NTHCRWU- a pioneer affiliated national union to NTUC and IUF internationally) accused the HAN officials of not respecting the initial agreement. There was a 20 points agreement between workers and HAN officials where they agreed to set up a task force to monitor and review the service charge every three years but not a single meeting was held.  
“When we made the agreement, we were very new in the practice of service charge in Nepal, but there is an international practice of taking 2-15%. Giving 32 % to management is an injustice towards the workers, now our demand is to implement 100 % service charge to the worker” Khada said.

Social protection and disasters illustration: Nepal's earthquake

After the earthquakes hitting Nepal in April and May 2015, which killed 9.000 people, injured 25.000 and hundreds of thousands of people were made homeless. Over 4,4 billion USD was promised in aid for the relief and reconstruction, but implementation by the Nepali government was too slow and failed to materialize: only a year and a half after the earthquake did some 75% of over 1.000 affected households receive a 450€ grant to rebuild their houses. Should there have been systems of social security in place, with registered beneficiaries, this aid could have come much sooner and could have saved many lives.

Gonoshasthaya Kendra (GK) medical Team helped Nepal earthquake victims

By Mr. Rammani Pokharel, NTUC

After learning about the devastation, Gonoshasthaya Kendra (GK) from Bangladesh came to Nepal and linked up with another WSM partner, Nepal Trade Union Congress (NTUC) to offer medical help. A team of one doctor and five medical students, some with Nepali origins but studying at GK, came by truck, bringing medicines and supplies. NTUC facilitated the hosting of two medical camps in and around Laliptur for construction, commercial and carpet workers. The remaining medication and material was handed over to the Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu. During their mission, 971 (among which 398 male and 573 female) patients were treated. Head of the team, Dr. Halimour was glad he didn’t have to perform any major amputations. He remembered treating a little girl whose mother had died while shielding her from falling debris and who was still very afraid.

Press release: MIGRANT WORKERS’ LIVES MATTER!

A press conference was held today in Kathmandu, with a press release in English and Nepali (see below), where 18 people attended, among whom Nepali journalists and one French photographer. First, a documentary entitled Bruise of Qatar was shown, then Jeroen Roskams from WSM introduced the purpose of the press conference and the context of this programme. Next, Bismo from WSM and coordinator of this project, launched a collection of testimonies. Two Nepali migrants testified during the conference regarding their working conditions in Qatar. Next, Khila Nath Dahal, president of NTUC, spoke about the importance of organizing migrant workers and the role of trade unions. Then M Bishnu Lamsal, General secretary of GEFONT, explained the recommendations and demands towards the Qatari and Nepali government. Last, Tom Deleu from ACV-CSC-BIE spoke about the international solidarity. Journalists were then given the opportunity to ask questions.

Six labour organizations from India and Nepal, of which three national trade union centers (GEFONT, NTUC, CFTUI), their affiliated construction federations (CUPPEC, CAWUN) and one domestic workers’ movement (NDWM), are gathering in Kathmandu on 28 and 29 February to discuss how they can jointly support migrant workers who are working in Qatar. Through a program that is hosted by the Belgian NGO WSM and the Belgian federation of construction workers ACV-CSC BIE, we are putting together our efforts in a joint action plan for the next five years (2017 – 2021) to strengthen the initiatives we are already taking in support of Indian and Nepali migrant workers. During the meeting, we discussed the different options for concrete action on which we can work together, going from campaigning and pre-departure training to giving legal assistance and organizing the migrant workers in Qatar as well as in the sending countries.

Since 2014 already we have been collaborating in a pilot project to map out how migrant workers in Qatar are organizing themselves through local support groups and how they are communicating between themselves and with the trade unions in the sending countries. One of the project’s goals was also to get a view on the actors that are involved in the migration process from Nepal/India to Qatar (recruitment agencies/agents, multinational companies, contractors and subcontractors, embassies, local and national governments...). Just now, our collaboration has also resulted in a collection of testimonies, which we present to the world today.

Around 1.200 migrant workers have died in Qatar since it was awarded the World Cup in December 2010 and it is projected 7.000 more will die by the time the championship takes place in 2022.

Does the new Nepali Constitution work for the workers?

After five years, six months and 26 days of work as well as two elections, two major earthquakes and close to 500 aftershocks, a new dawn supposedly rises on Nepal: the new Constitution is proclaimed today. But who supported and opposed, and what kind of provisions does this new Constitution reserve for the workers and the right to social protection?

Role of Trade Unions after Nepal earthquake

The 8.3 earthquake and the 400 aftershocks that shook Nepal since April 2015 have killed over 9.000 people, injured over 23.000, and destroyed or damaged over 750.000 homes. 60.895 trade union members and depends were affected. The sectors most affected were the labour intensive sectors, like real estate (4 % drop), tourism (2.6%), construction (2.3%) and manufacturing (2.2%). In agriculture, much of the livestock sector, which accounts for over 23% of value added was destroyed: loss of over 17,000 cattle and 40,000 domesticated animals. Many arable lands were lost due to landslides. Tourism has been adversely affected with nine out of every ten planned foreign arrivals cancelled. While many jobs have been lost, to reconstruct the houses, an annual requirement of 500.000 workers would be necessary. In order to have this labour force, vocational skill training and decent jobs are necessary. This is what trade unions should ensure during the reconstruction process.

\What did GEFONT and NTUC do?

Confronted with the damages and with solidarity from many corners of the earth, both Nepali trade unions provided relief in the days and weeks after the quake. NTUC leadership visited all 14 affected districts and their affiliates (Health, Teacher, finances, Transport etc.) supplied tents, food, clean water and medicine etc. An NTUC Relief Fund for rehabilitation was created and support provided to members. GEFONT mobilized more than 300 volunteers who helped build 181 transitional shelters and nine schools, distributed food packages for 10.000 families. 22 seriously injured members and 22 families of members who died in the quake were also provided with support.

Support from other WSM partners

GK team gathering donations and equipment

Also the WSM partners in Asia have expressed their solidarity and support. The Cambodian Labour Confederation (CLC), and C.CWADU, also WSM partners, gathered donations for GEFONT and NTUC. Another partner in Bangladesh, GK, which runs a Medical College and hospital, has several Nepali students, who, with the help from staff, gathered funds and equipment and drove a team of Nepali doctors and students to Kathmandu for medical support. Facilitated by NTUC, they organized two medical camps in and around Laliptur for construction, commercial and carpet workers. During their mission and various camps, 971 (398 male and 573 female) patients were treated. The trade unions jointly also dedicated the 1st of May celebration to the victims of the earthquake. With SARTUC, they handed over 1 million rupees (8.500EUR) to the Prime Minister Natural Disaster Relief Fund to support but also be involved in and hold the government accountable for the use of the funds.

How do trade unions see the reconstruction phase?

Reconstruction: By Creating Decent jobs, meeting 3-4 September 2015 in Kathmandu

During emergency situations, often decent work is not respected and people work for little money in unsafe conditions. To keep Nepali workers in the country, stimulate the Nepali economy and properly use all the international support given, trade unions are promoting decent work during the reconstruction. Beginning of September 2015, Nepali trade unions under the umbrella of ITUC-NAC, organized an international solidarity meeting with the theme “Reconstruction: By creating decent jobs”. Delegates from government, international trade union community and Nepali trade union movement participated in the meeting. They appealed the Government of Nepal (GoN) to prepare the strategies and campaign of reconstruction of Nepal post-earthquake with focus on Nepali workers. The roadmap has asked the GoN to revise the national employment policy to create at least 200.000 jobs as the reconstruction phase will require huge manpower. GoN should also guarantee Nepali workers 200 days of employment per year and raise minimum wages to 1.000Rps/day for unskilled workers to create decent jobs and stop migration of the Nepali workers. To promote this agenda, ITUC-NAC will ensure representation in decision making processes regarding reconstruction efforts. This roadmap was signed by all three leaders of the trade unions, the Minister of Labour and the representative of the employers’ union.

NTUC ensures five demands present in Nepali constitution drafting process

NTUC trade union and its affiliates from the Kathmandu valley met last Sunday, to appeal to their members to attend public hearings organized as part of the constitution drafting process in Nepal. After trade unions agreed in the JTUCC platform on several issues to be included (link), NTUC put forward five main issues which the members should suggest during the public hearings organized in 240 electoral constituencies around the country.

These five demands prioritized by NTUC are:

1. Representation: 10% of workers representation on all levels of the state (parliament, but also district and local level) - link here
2. Social security for all, including for migrant workers abroad
3. Right to vote for Nepali migrants working abroad, through the Nepali diplomatic representations
4. Institutionalizing the Labour Commission, a tripartite structure, necessary for the correct implementation of the Labour Law
5. Right to strike

Five Nepali Congress members from the Constitutional Assembly attended, as well as the Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, who ensured he supported the demands from NTUC.

Bruno Deceukelier, invited as the WSM Asia Coordinator, which is supporting this process, spoke how WSM believes in solidarity between workers all over the world, which is increasingly becoming a small village. He expressed it was important that in this village, houses of decent work were build and congratulated NTUC on emphasizing the four cornerstones in their five demands:

1. The Right to Strike, which was also contested globally in the ILO and needs to be defended more than ever;
2. The social security and more largely social protection for all, especially with such a significant portion of Nepali working abroad;
3. Workers representation in the democracy;
4. Social dialogue and tripartite structures

He also said Nepal is currently going through a fundamental time, where rights can be inscribed in the constitution and provide the foundation for many improvements of labour rights. If successful, trade unions will then have to play an important role in ensuring the respect of these rights.

How crucial this is can be demonstrated by the opposition of the Nepali Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), which wants to withdraw labour rights from the fundamental rights to be inscribed in the constitution. The article mentions "The private sector has voiced fears about the possible misuse of the provision regarding labour rights. “If the right is treated as a fundamental right, labourers could file a petition against their employers, and the state is liable to protect the right. This will create a dubious situation" (link to article here).

Zuid-Azie jaarverslag 2014 voor WSM

Elk jaar maakt WSM een jaarverslag, iets wat minder droog dan ons rapport voor de Belgische overheid, en met een bepaalde focus. Voor het 2014 jaarverslag kozen we de informele economie en het werk dat de WSM partners hierrond doen in Zuid-Azie.

2014 was een druk jaar voor de partners van WSM in Zuid-Azië. Meer dan 400.000 mensen werden door de partners bijgestaan op verschillende manieren rond het recht op sociale bescherming (rechtsbijstand, beroepsopleiding, sociale economie, sociale zekerheid, gezondheidszorg), waarvan 54% vrouwen. Zo kregen meer dan 72.000 mensen betere toegang tot sociale beschermingssystemen en 275.000 mensen tot betaalbare gezondheidszorg. Gezamenlijke politieke actie lobbyt met de nationale regeringen o.m. in Nepal rond veiligheid op het werk en rond gezondheidszorg voor textielarbeidsters in Bangladesh. De Bangladesh partners waren ook actief in de campagne die in België één jaar na de Rana Plaza ramp werd gevoerd en meer dan 13.000 handtekeningen verzamelde en er toe leiden dat JBC en Bel&Bo zich bij de Fair Wair Foundation aansloten.

Eén van de thema’s waar WSM en onze partners het actiefste rond zijn in Zuid-Azië is de informele economie, één van de grootste uitdagingen betreffende waardig werk. Acht op tien mensen in Zuid Azië werken in de informele economie, wereldwijd de regio met het hoogste percentage van mensen die hierin werken, in Nepal bijvoorbeeld goed voor 40% van het BNP. Het betreft meestal werk zonder duidelijk loon, maatregelen, statuut en dat vaak niet of slechts onrechtstreeks belast wordt. Meerdere problemen plagen deze werkers: geen schriftelijk arbeidscontract, geen identificatie, inkomstenonzekerheid, geen garantie voor veilige werkomstandigheden of dekking in geval van ongevallen, onbeperkte uren, werkers die uitgesloten van sociale zekerheidssystemen of collectieve arbeidsovereenkomsten. Vaak zijn het relatief ongeschoolde werkers, zoals huispersoneel, bouwvakkers of dagwerkers in de landbouw, die lange uren werken voor lage lonen en zonder jobzekerheid.