5 June 2026
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) notes the outcome of South Africa’s appearance before the International Labour Organization’s Committee on the Application of Standards and welcomes the opportunity afforded to government to present its case regarding employment equity measures and labour market transformation.
FEDUSA remains committed to the principles of social dialogue, tripartism and constructive engagement that underpin both the ILO system and South Africa’s labour relations framework. While international institutions have an important supervisory role, FEDUSA believes that labour market disputes and policy differences should, wherever possible, be addressed and resolved through South Africa’s established social dialogue institutions, particularly NEDLAC, where organised labour, business, government and community constituencies are represented.
In this regard, FEDUSA is concerned that organised business did not sufficiently utilise existing social dialogue mechanisms to engage social partners and seek resolution on matters that have significant implications for the labour market. Meaningful consultation and engagement remain essential to building consensus and maintaining confidence in our labour relations architecture. FEDUSA further reiterates that social partners carry a collective responsibility to strengthen dialogue, promote transparency and avoid actions that may undermine trust between constituencies. It is for this reason that the overwhelming support South Africa’s case has received from governments and organised labour bodies attending the International Labour Conference is of such significance.
As South Africa continues to confront the enduring challenges of inequality, exclusion and discrimination in the workplace, FEDUSA calls on all social partners to recommit themselves to constructive engagement, mutual respect and good-faith participation in the institutions established to advance decent work and social justice.
END.