Migration is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has profound implications for individuals, communities, and nations. In the West African context, Ghana and Burkina Faso stand out as countries experiencing significant migration patterns. The movement of people across borders is not only influenced by economic factors but is also deeply embedded in sociocultural dynamics, historical ties, and regional interactions. Understanding the role of migrant associations in these contexts becomes crucial for grasping the broader implications of migration on both the sending and receiving communities.
This research project focuses on mapping migrant associations in Ghana and Burkina Faso, shedding light on the organizational strategies, solidarity networks, and collaborative alliances that shape the experiences of migrants in these regions. By delving into the intricate web of relationships formed by these associations, the research aims at contributing to a nuanced understanding of migration dynamics and the ways in which migrant communities organize themselves to navigate the challenges they face.

This discussion paper explores the necessity of establishing a “new social contract” in Africa, aimed at redefining the relationship between workers, employers, and governments amid significant economic, social, and environmental changes. The old social contract, rooted in post-World War II agreements, has largely failed in Africa due to factors such as neoliberal policies, structural adjustment programmes, and the rise of precarious work in the informal economy. These failures have been exacerbated by technological disruptions and the climate crisis, necessitating a framework that prioritises social justice, equity, and inclusion. Globally, trade unons have six central demands for this new social contract: decent and climate-friendly jobs, universal worker rights, minimum living wages, universal social protection, equality, and inclusion. The discussion paper argues that African trade unions are uniquely positioned to advocate for these principles, leveraging their historical advocacy and strategic roles. It further recommends actionable steps for trade unions to advance this agenda, including strengthening labour rights in the informal economy, championing just transitions, and promoting inclusive growth policies. Ultimately, the establishment of a new social contract is presented as a critical path towards a fairer, more resilient future of work in Africa, emphasizing the collaborative role of trade unions, employers, and governments in fostering social justice and economic prosperity.

During a recent courtesy call by the African Regional organization of the International Trade Union Confederation Africa (ITUC-Africa) and the Trade Union Congress of Namibia (TUCNA) to the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation in Namibia on November 8, 2024, a range of proposals were presented to address key issues in Namibia’s labour sector, with a special focus on advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation and enhancing labour protections. Key representatives from ITUC-Africa, TUCNA, and the Ministry shared their insights on how to promote economic growth, social protection, and unity within the Namibian labour movement. This visit was made possible by the support of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland through the Trade Union Solidarity Centre of Finland (SASK),

In a significant step forward for the labour movement in Africa, the Honourable Lucia Iipumbu, Minister for Industrialisation and Trade of Namibia, officially welcomed the Trade Union Congress of Namibia (TUCNA) as a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) National Implementation Committee (NIC). This landmark development is the culmination of dedicated advocacy efforts led by ITUC-Africa with the support of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland through the Trade Union Solidarity Centre of Finland (SASK), showcasing its unwavering commitment to ensuring the inclusion of trade unions in critical policymaking bodies. Including TUCNA in the NIC marks a pivotal moment for labour representation in Namibia’s trade and industrialisation strategy. The achievement was secured during a strategic advocacy visit by an ITUC-Africa delegation led by Comrade Akhator Joel Odigie, General Secretary of ITUC-Africa. The delegation included Comrade Mahongora Kavihuha, Secretary General of TUCNA and the TUCNA leadership. This advocacy engagement highlights ITUC-Africa’s pivotal role in fostering collaborative partnerships and amplifying workers’ voices at continental decision-making platforms. The meeting was held at the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade in Namibia on November 7, 2024.

No.1: Policy Brief: Human Rights-Based Approach to Trade in Africa: A Trade Union Perspective

No.2: Policy Brief: Enhancing the Inclusion and Participation of Women and Youth: The Role of Trade Unions

Background and Rationale:
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is an opportunity for economic integration, growth, and social development in Africa. To ensure fair representation and equity, it is critical for national trade union centres to engage actively in the trade facilitation and negotiation processes, especially to secure labour provisions within AfCFTA protocols. This toolkit will serve as a practical, step-by-step guide for trade unions to conduct effective advocacy and lobbying, specifically to secure representation on National Implementation Councils (NICs) within the AfCFTA structure, as well as to shape trade policies that support workers’ rights and fair labour practices in their individual countries.

The aim of this document is to offer practical guidance to trade union leaders and their representatives in developing countries on how to integrate environmental and low-carbon sustainability and a just transition into their daily work. The guide is designed to serve as a learning platform, allowing readers to exchange experiences and explore different approaches and trade-offs when creating space in existing workers’ organizations–as well as when negotiating with employers and governments–especially on energy transition.