Mainstreaming knowledge on social security - Cambodia context in 2023

The development of the social protection system in Cambodia has progressed rapidly in the last decade, especially since the Royal Government of Cambodia approved and implemented the "National Social Protection Policy Framework 2016-2025". This policy document is a long- term roadmap of the Government to lead the implementation of the social protection policy in Cambodia under the common vision of ensuring citizen's income security, reducing and preventing poverty, vulnerability and social inequality, as well as contributing to the wider development of human resources, including promoting sustainable national economic growth. To develop the social protection system and to ensure better harmonization of the different strategies, policies and other social protection activities, the Royal Government has established the “National Social Protection Council” (NSPC). The NSPC is the key actor responsible for the overall coordination and steering on the development of various social protection strategies and policies. 

The National Social Security Fund or NSSF consists of 3 schemes: Occupational Risks Scheme (2008), Health Care (2016), Pension (2022). The Law on Social Security Schemes, which dates from 2019, also foresees the development of an unemployment benefit scheme. Until 2021, 17.355 companies had registered in NSSF, with a total number of 4.335.501 members: 2.723.837 men and 1.633.583 women. 

Before 2017, WSM has also worked with the Cambodian Labour Confederation (CLC) and its main federation C.CAWDU, which is organizing the workers in the garment industries of Cambodia. While contacts with CLC have remained between 2017 and 2022, as they were also part of the continental network on the right to social protection in Asia, WSM has decided to return to Cambodia to put up a program with CLC to mainstream and increase the knowledge of union leaders and workers in factories on the national social security system. In the past actions were quite focused on further developing the NSSF, through advocacy by CLC to the Cambodian government. This time the goal is to ensure that within the organization of CLC knowledge and expertise on social security is more widely shared, also at the local levels of the organization, as well in the federations organizing the formal as the informal sectors. By the end of 2026, 1.725 union leaders, members and workers should have in-depth knowledge on the Cambodian social security system and have the ability to raise awareness and advocacy for better policies on social security. 

Aside from that, CLC keeps pushing to increase the coverage of the NSSF to an additional 300.000 workers (of which 60.000 in the informal sectors) and for improving the quality of the existing system, in particular the health care scheme and the occupational risks scheme. The union propagates that all Cambodian workers should be able to have health insurance and that it should similarly be available to their family members. At the same time the quality if the health facilities should improve and more diseases should be covered by the health insurance. CLC also advocates for the new pension scheme to apply to all Cambodian workers and for the creation of an unemployment benefits scheme.

Cambodian garment worker got it covered - Cambodia 2023

Gnil, 38 years old is a Cambodian garment worker, member of CLC. Before Mrs. Gnil was unaware regarding the social security system of Cambodia (National Social Security Fund or NSSF), which covers health insurance, work accidents and pension. So when Mrs. Gnil had a health problem, she would go to the hospital or to the doctor and spend a lot of money on medicines and health checks. But she attended a training from CLC where experts of the NSSF explained the social security law, the benefits workers can avail through the social security system. After the training she had a clear understanding of the NSSF and how to apply for its benefits. Mrs. Gnil got access to the NSSF and if she falls sick now, she can consult a doctor and obtain her medicines for free, so she can save money for her family. When she gave childbirth, she also received financial support from the NSSF for several months.

In the companies where there is a union, it is possible to get access to the NSSF and to save on health spending, because expenses due to sickness or a work accident are covered by the social security.

Strength in numbers: Some results by the WSM partners in Bangladesh in 2023

Labour rights: 102.878 people, of which 50% women and 9% younger than 35 years, were involved in the services by the partners to improve their working conditions. 

• 200.000 workers increased their awareness on labour standards and especially the minimum wages for the garment sector
• 3.864 workers per year were organised to increase membership
• 154 union members received basic training and 139 union leaders advanced training on labour rights and collective bargaining 
• 859 garment sector union members received legal assistance

Health

• Almost 149.119 members, of which 61% women increased their awareness about health and hygiene, family planning, health related messages, gender policy and rights.
• 32.245 garment workers and vulnerable people, of which over half were women, were organised to join the health insurance of GK.
• 41 women received basic training as a traditional birth attendee, and 127 members received training to work as a paramedic. 94 paramedics of which 73 are women, are trained to promote health insurance to the general public.
• Nearly 23.753 people received medical advice through specialised health camps, preventive care programs and were supplied with medicines, of which 15.937 are women. 7.286 garment workers, of which 4.772 women, received medical advice aid and support through health camps and health screenings.

Social security

• 271.614 workers, of which 140.858 are women and 131.295 under 35 years are informed about social security through media, poster and leaflets.
• 61 workers, of which 38 women and 60 under 35 years, were part of two basic trainings on social security.

Vocational training: 127 people, of which 97% women and  all under 35 years received vocational skill training through GK, on computer skills, women driving and to work as a paramedic.

Social economy: especially focusing on elderly, 100 seniors were supported through social economy initiative to ensure betterment of health, of which 63 were elderly women.

224 members of BSPAN were mobilised for advocacy actions during national days and 65 BSPAN members interacted with policy makers to promote access to social protection  and to ratify ILO Convention 102 on minimum standards for social security. 

Learning: 1.065 members increased their awareness on social security, shared lessons and experiences. 49 BSPAN members received  training on OSH as fundamental rights and how to use  communication and social dialogue for SP Campaign.

What happened in Bangladesh regarding social protection in 2023?

Bangladesh saw some measures taken related to social protection in 2023:

• Universal Pension Scheme (UPS)

In August 2023, the Bangladeshi government introduced the Universal Pension Scheme (UPS). Under this program, citizens aged under 50 can enroll by paying a fixed premium for at least 10 years. Upon reaching 60, beneficiaries receive pension payments. Notably, both the deposited premiums and pension disbursements enjoy tax exemptions. Additionally, beneficiaries have the option to withdraw up to 50% of their accumulated funds as a loan.

• Garment Workers’ Minimum Wage Increase

Effective December 1, 2023, the minimum wage for garment workers rose from 8,000 taka to 12,500 BDT (approximately 110€) per month. This was after many protests that met with violent repression and remains far below the trade unions unified demand of 24.000BDT/month.

• 
  Employment Injury Scheme for Garment Workers

Long awaited, this pilot scheme launched in 2023 is addressing occupational safety, the Employment Injury Scheme provides comprehensive support for garment workers. It includes data collection, rehabilitation services, and safety enhancements within factories. See ILO's June 2024 publication on its achievements here.

Climate Change Challenges

Also in 2023, Bangladesh faced climate-related health risks due to rising temperatures, floods, and cyclones. These challenges impact poverty reduction efforts and strain healthcare systems. However, addressing climate change can also yield health benefits, including improved air quality and disease prevention.

A health worker excels - GK paramedics digitally empowered

Hi, I’m Sharmin, a 19-year-old with a big dream: to become a nurse and help people in need. Recently, I got accepted into the GK training program, which has been an incredible experience.

In 2023, International Women’s Day focused on “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality”, and inspired by this, GK encouraged paramedics like me to learn computer skills alongside our regular training. I had never used a computer before—my older brother was the only one in our family who had one. But I quickly realized that knowing how to use Word and Excel is essential for any job nowadays.

Excel fascinated me. It’s like magic—it can calculate percentages and analyze data. Now, armed with this knowledge, I feel more confident during our door-to-door visits in rural villages. As a paramedic, I can provide health information effectively and be a first responder when needed.

This training is just the beginning, but I’m hopeful. The blend of healthcare and technology empowers me to serve my community better. Together, we can make a difference—one step at a time.

When a gender reveal isn't a good thing - testimony from a GK traditional birth attendee in Bangladesh

Halima, 57 years: "I received Traditional Birth Attenders (TBA) training from Gonoshasthay Kendra (GK) and began working in my village. In Bangladesh, maternity care often occurs at home due to stigma around women going to hospitals. As a TBA, I provide health advice to pregnant women and support them during follow-up visits with GK paramedics and I also bring them to our sub-centers for ultrasound scans. Unfortunately, I sometimes encounter uncomfortable situations where families try to know the fetus’s gender. This can be dangerous: if it’s a boy, often the family is very happy and the mother praised and taken care of. However, if it’s turns out to be a girl, families can be unhappy and can blame the mother, neglect her or even lead to physical and mental abuse them.

To prevent this, in 2020, the Bangladesh High Court issued a rule to prevent gender-based discrimination against unborn children. GK not only abides this but to contribute addressing this serious issue, has incorporated gender awareness into our midwifery training. Through workshops, we educate elders and family members that woman are not responsible for a baby’s gender and that daughters are just as much of a blessing as sons. Within our role of traditional birth attendees, we can help eliminate discrimination and contribute to dismantling societal stigma.

Since my gender awareness training, I’ve actively promoted change within many  families and villages and have been proud to witness this."

From toiling the soil to leading the union - CFTUI, India

Marisa Naresh, 38 years, born in the village of RAJAM in Andhra Pradesh: "My family survived on a mere 3 acres of agricultural land, toiling under the sun. We were laborers, our livelihood tied to the earth.

As a young man, I looked up to Mr. N. Satyanarayana—the towering figure behind the District Agricultural Union. At 17, I stepped into the world of union activities. Our affiliation with CFTUI in 2007 opened doors. Thematic knowledge, organizing skills, and public speaking—these became my tools.

Through WSM-supported activities, I learned about labour standards, participated in sectoral conferences, several basic and advanced training which boosted my knowledge on labour rights.  I now lead struggles, especially concerning MGNREGA wages. The ageing leaders pass the torch to me, and I’ve become a role model for youth in the agricultural sector."

Strength in numbers: some results of partners in India during 2023

Labour rights: 639.813 people, of which 64% women and 37% younger than 35 years, were reached through actions focussing on ensuring existing labour rights or developing new labour standards: 

• 536.302 workers (64% women and 37% youth) were made more aware of their labour rights through campaigning and outreach. 
• The partner organizations have organized 71.081 workers, of which 97% women and 30% youth. 
• 33.049 people, of which 94% women and 34% youth received basic training, while 4.859 workers and union leaders (90% women and 43% youth) received advanced training. 
• 14.107 workers, of which 95% women and 24% youth, benefitted from some kind of individualized support or advice from the partner organizations. 

Over 150.000 people (46% women and 39% youth) were mobilized at grassroots level (ex. demonstrations, petitions…) for advocacy and to meet policy makers.

Social security: 93.904 people, of which 61% women and 33% younger than 35 years, were reached through actions focussing on giving access to better social security.  58.168 people were reached through awareness raising activities (60% women and 25% men), while 13.681 received basic training (97% women and 24% youth) and 728 people received advanced training (45% women and 16% youth). The partner organizations gave legal assistance and support to some 21.082 workers (99% women and 36% youth) and reached out to 245 policy makers.

Healthcare: overall, 9.539 people were reached during actions to improve awareness on health practices and how to use native medical practices and medicines.

Network: In 2023, all WSM partner organisations jointly organised and participated in 9 State and national level events focusing on ensuring and including health insurance (ESI) for informal workers in the Social Protection Scheme and inclusion of Domestic workers in Informal Sector. A total of 4950 workers (37% women, 18% under 35 years old) actively participated in these mobilization efforts.

The collective efforts of WSM partner organizations have paved the way for getting attention by the authorities for the inclusion of social protection and the health insurance ESI for informal workers and recognise domestic workers contribution for economic development of the country and include them under informal sector. By advocating for health insurance coverage and the inclusion of domestic workers, they have voiced critical issues to the State Government.

India context in 2023: women, health and agriculture

Women’s Right 

The Women’s Reservation Act, 2023 (also known as the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam) is a historic step towards gender equality in Indian politics. It reserves one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha, State legislative assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi for women. This includes seats reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) as well. The proposed legislation aims to continue this reservation for 15 years.

Health Policies

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is a significant component of the Ayushman Bharat initiative launched by the Government of India. A flagship scheme aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in India. It moves away from a fragmented approach to health service delivery and focuses on comprehensive, need-based healthcare. It provides cashless and paperless health insurance for secondary and tertiary care across public and private empanelled hospitals in India. PM-JAY is a crucial step toward ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare for millions of Indians, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and improving health outcomes.

New policies in Agricultural Sector

The new agriculture policy of the Indian Government aimed to promote growth in the Indian economy by focusing on increasing agricultural productivity, encouraging the adoption of modern agricultural practices, and promoting value addition in the agricultural value chain.

Fading flowers? No, facing the world! AREDS, India, 2023

I’m Shanmuga, an 17-year-old girl who’s been through quite a journey. Life wasn’t all rainbows and sunshine for me. Irregular periods, loss of appetite, tiredness, hair falling out like autumn leaves, and a constant feeling of fatigue. Yep, that was my life. Anaemia had me in its grip, and it wasn’t letting go. But that wasn’t the worst part. Every time I saw another girl my age, I felt like a drooping flower next to a glowing bloom. My self-esteem? Well, it was buried somewhere deep, along with my energy.

Here enters the AREDS Health Team. They didn’t just throw medical jargon at me; they built a bridge of trust. Slowly, I spilled my worries—the irregular cycles, the hair loss, the whole shebang. And guess what? They didn’t judge. Instead, they handed me a lifeline. “Shanmuga,” they said, “meet your new best friends: bitter gourd, beetroot, turkey berry, pomegranate, dates, gooseberry, curry leaf, and jaggery.” Iron-rich foods became my daily companions. I chomped down on them like a hungry squirrel. And you know what? It worked! Six months of commitment, and my body thanked me. My menstrual cycle decided to play nice, anxiety took a vacation, and my hair even stopped its escape act.

Now, I’m not saying I turned into a superhero overnight. But I did feel lighter—physically and mentally. No more hiding in the shadows. I could face the world, chat with friends and neighbours. Plus, my parents didn’t need to mortgage the house for doctor visits. Bonus!

So here I am, an 17-year-old with a renewed spirit. Anaemia? It’s still there, but it’s no longer the boss of me. I’ve got my iron-packed squad, and we’re rocking this health thing. If you see a girl with a spring in her step, that’s probably me. And hey, if you’re dealing with your own struggles, remember: You’re not alone. There’s always a way to bloom, even in the toughest soil.

Strength in numbers - Achieved by partners in Indonesia in 2023

 Labour rights: More than 90.070 workers, of which 43% women and 25% younger than 35 years old, benefitted from activities pursuing more awareness, a better understanding and knowledge of the regulation on the wage structure and scale, on the Job Creation Law and its impact on workers, on how to negotiate CBA’s and MoU’s, on how to prevent and deal with gender-based violence at the shop floor. In several companies CBA proposals were drafted or agreements were concluded and signed. 

Social security: 62.469 people, of which 30% women and 11% younger than 35 years, were reached through actions focussing on giving access to better social security. 

INSP!R Indonesia mobilised 1766 of its members (81% women, 41 under 35 y/o) to advocate during the drafting of two new regulations regarding health and SP for migrant workers, as well as on adaptive social protection and other social protection issues. INSP!R Indonesia also raised the awareness of 5.140 people on these matters through leaflets and videos (accessible to people with disabilities).

Since 2023 was an election year, INSP!R Indonesia analysed the positions of the various candidates on social protection and submitted policy recommendations to 19 policy makers.

Indonesian context in 2023 related to social protection and INSP!R network issues

At the end of December 2022, President Joko Widodo issued an emergency regulation on Job Creation to replace the Omnibus Law, with the reason of addressing global recession risks in 2023 and for attracting more foreign investment at the expense of workers’ rights. The Indonesian Unions rejected the new regulation as some provisions in the regulation have given governors discretionary power to determine the minimum wage, affect outsourcing, severance pay, recruitment of foreign workers and criminal sanctions against employers which will impact workers.

Seeing the shrinking of democratic space in the region, many trade unions and civil society organizations are trying to defend and reclaim their democratic space. 

A new Health Law came into force in Indonesia on 8 August 2023. The new law (Law No.17 of 2023 on Health) (Health Law) holds monumental implications for the development and transformation of Indonesia's health care system. The Health Bill not only potentially deprives people of their health rights but also threatens public safety.

WSM was able to initiate and facilitate the creation of a new platform: the Global Union Indonesia Network, to unite the affiliates of the International Trade Union Confederation and Global Federations in Asia with National Trade Unions centres in Indonesia as one of the best practice of building unity. The platform has been successfully placing the controversial Indonesia’ Law on Job Creation on the short list of cases of non-compliance for the ILO Convention nr. 98 on Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining. The report of the ILO Committee on the Application of Standards concluded that the Job Creation Law is in non-compliance with the ILO C.98 and therefore the ILO CAS recommended the government of Indonesia to reform the Labor Law with focus on the Job Creation Law by having a proper and a time-bound dialogue with the most representative unions in Indonesia. As a lesson learned: with openness and cooperation, we are able to unite in one platform the majority of national trade union centres, including some of the labour NGOs and solidarity support organizations.

Wheels in motion: the Belgian ambassador visits an Indonesian tyre factory

The Belgian Ambassador in Jakarta and the DGD went to Elang Perdana Tyre Industry and its local union affiliated to LOMENIK federation, part of WSM's partner KSBSI.

This company is currently in its 8th Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and has a zero-tolerance policy for gender harassment. They’ve established a wage structure and other measures for worker well-being. As part of the supply chain exporting to Europe, they follow relevant HRDD legislation. Most workers are permanent, and good working conditions result from constructive social dialogue.

The company, founded in 1997 with new Indonesian management in 2003, is gradually expanding. Despite pandemic challenges, they export 70% of their production to 85 countries while adhering to quality standards. The Trade union, with 1,600 members (only 8 women) out of 1,900 workers (70 women), focuses on welfare, occupational health and safety (OHS), and social security (SS). They compete with Chinese manufacturers, which limits their offerings.

An OHS committee ensures safety, with a program of 1,000 accident-free days and locally available ambulances. Training has improved knowledge and practices. Legal assistance was provided during a dismissal case. In future CBA negotiations, they aim for better allowances. However, since the 2017 government regulation on wage scales, salary negotiations at the company level are restricted. They hope for legal amendments to allow negotiation flexibility.

A blind woman gets new inspiring insights - INSP!R Indonesia 2023

Rina is 47, from Indonesia and a member of the Indonesian Association of Women with Disabilities (HWDI), member of INSP!R Indonesia:
 “As someone with a disability, INSP!R Indonesia has given me new insights. Before, I mostly talked to other disabled people. But with INSP!R Indonesia, I learned that many organizations discuss disability issues, especially social security rights. I work in a hotel and know about social security, but many of my disabled friends don’t. Some can’t hear or speak, and few go to school. 

I hope INSP!R Indonesia can create schools for people with disabilities. Education is essential not only for disabled kids but also for their parents to understand its importance. With support, people with disabilities can be independent.”