South Africa sends delegation to ILO’s 111th International Labour Conference

1 min read
south africa international labour conference

South Africa’s Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi will lead a delegation to the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) 111th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva from June 5th to 16th. The delegation consists of representatives from the government, workers, and employers.

Conference to Address Range of Topics

The conference will bring together delegates from the ILO’s 187 member states to discuss a wide range of topics related to labor, including apprenticeships, labor protection, and the transition to sustainable, inclusive economies.

Key Moments for South Africa

South Africa’s Acting Deputy Director-General of the Department of Employment and Labour – Labour Policy and Industrial Relations (LP&IR), Sipho Ndebele, has highlighted a few key moments for the country during the conference. President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to address the World of Work Summit on June 14th, while Minister Nxesi will speak at the plenary on June 13th.

Significant Role in Global Labor Market Activities

According to Ndebele, South Africa’s high-level participation in the conference demonstrates the country’s significant role in global labor market activities.

Opportunity to Develop Strong Positions

For South Africa, the conference provides an opportunity to develop strong positions on social protection and just transition. In addition to attending the ILO conference, Minister Nxesi will engage in bilateral meetings with counterparts from various countries and attend the ARLAC Governing Council.

Invitation from ILO Director-General

South Africa’s participation in the ILO conference follows an invitation from the ILO Director-General’s office in February 2023. The conference will take place at the Palais de Nations and ILO headquarters, with full in-person attendance.

Side Event on World Day Against Child Labour

In addition to the main ILC event, a side event commemorating World Day Against Child Labour will be held alongside the conference.

ILO’s Mission and Goals

The ILO, established in 1919, is an agency of the United Nations (UN) with a mission to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection, and strengthen dialogue on work-related issues.

Platform for Collaboration and Strategy Development

The 111th ILC offers a platform for South Africa and other nations to collaborate on pressing labor issues and develop strategies for fostering sustainable, inclusive economies. With high-level participation from President Ramaphosa and Minister Nxesi, South Africa is poised to make a significant impact on the global labor market and contribute to the development of strong positions on critical issues such as social protection and just transition.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

Minister Senzo Mchunu Addresses Cholera Outbreak in Hammanskraal and Water Security Measures

Next Story

Accelerating Sanitation Delivery in the Western Cape: The Role of the Provincial Sanitation Task Team

Latest from Blog

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.