Trade unions should be regarded as central pillars of democracy. While political democracy and social dialogue are distinct processes, they mutually reinforce each other. We must unite to demonstrate that trade unions are essential tools for addressing people’s needs and aspirations.
Work is central to people’s lives, serving not only as a primary source of livelihood but also fostering social cohesion and providing a sense of identity and purpose. However, the current world of work is fragmented. Neoliberal policies have exacerbated in-work poverty and led to precarious employment, while megatrends like digitalization and platform work undermine traditional organized labor.
The concern for well-being is critical to understanding the decline in trust toward governments and the increasing feelings of disenfranchisement among citizens. Evidence shows that social inequalities contribute to political polarization, voter abstention, and the rise of populist, divisive politics.
In Africa, trade unions often struggle with internal issues and external pressures. Faced with the “informalization” of economies and the repercussions of neoliberal globalization, they are sometimes viewed as relics of the past. Historically, African labor unions played a vital role in the anti-colonial struggle but later became aligned with ruling parties post-independence, sacrificing fundamental freedoms for job security and privileges.
Many governments have since reformed labor laws to the detriment of workers. However, political liberalization has also created space for new, independent trade unions to emerge.
In Ghana, the pressing issue of sustainable mining has highlighted the challenges posed by illegal small-scale gold mining, or galamsey, which significantly harms the environment. The negative impacts of galamsey include land degradation, pollution, and threats to human health, while the benefits of mining remain contentious.
Mining contributes approximately 9.1% to Ghana’s GDP and employs nearly 300,000 people. Despite its economic significance, mining’s adverse impacts are escalating. Studies indicate that many communities see minimal benefits from mining operations and suffer lasting negative consequences.
Recent initiatives by mining companies aim to mitigate past environmental damage through comprehensive impact assessments and infrastructure development. However, many mining communities remain impoverished, lacking access to healthcare and clean water.
Social dialogue is often overlooked in discussions about strengthening democracy and trust in public institutions. Trade unions, as democratic organizations, engage in collective bargaining on issues vital to workers and their communities. In several countries, unions have been instrumental in dismantling autocratic regimes.
Despite their weakened influence today, it would be premature to dismiss African trade unions. Following years of stagnation, there are signs of renewed foreign investment, creating opportunities for union organization. Unions retain a significant political presence and have the potential to mobilize members around social and political issues.
Dr. Ashigbey’s recent remarks followed Organised Labour’s decision to suspend a planned industrial action on October 10, after government assurances to address the galamsey crisis. This decision sparked mixed reactions from the public. He reaffirmed the Media Coalition Against Galamsey’s commitment to combating illegal mining since 2016, stating that the fight will continue regardless of Organised Labour’s participation.
Dr. Ashigbey emphasized the urgent need to intensify efforts against illegal mining, recognizing its devastating effects on Ghana’s ecosystems.
Trade unions play a crucial role in promoting social inclusion and equitable labor market outcomes by representing workers’ interests on issues such as wages, working conditions, and environmental protection. As the largest membership-based organizations, they help sustain democratic structures in society.
The positive relationship between democracy and trade unions remains relevant today. Countries with robust industrial relations systems and a strong culture of social dialogue tend to be more democratic. However, workers’ rights to unionize and engage in collective bargaining are under threat in Ghana, where many workers are denied these fundamental rights.
Trade unions should be actively working to increase membership and address the fragmentation of the workforce, engaging vulnerable groups such as youth, informal workers, and those in emerging sectors.
Tripartite engagement—where government, workers, and businesses meet regularly—serves as a successful model for dialogue and negotiation, fostering policies that address citizens’ concerns.
As we move forward, it is essential to recognize that political democracy and social dialogue mutually reinforce one another. Together, we must demonstrate that these tools are vital for meeting the needs and aspirations of our communities.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
