Joint Trade Union Coordination Centre (JTUCC) is the common platform of Nepali working class established in 2007. It is the coordinating mechanism of recognized National Trade Union Confederations with around 1.8 million dues paying members. Guided by the principle of "Promoting Unity in Diversity", JTUCC practices democratic culture of working together based on the spirit of common ownership and leadership for TU Movement in Nepal. Right from the inception, JTUCC has been striving for developing labour friendly policies, reforming labour laws, and also bridging gap between and among trade unions in Nepal. JTUCC has been the instrumental mechanism to integrate Trade Union efforts and raise common issues for industrial peace, development and overall wellbeing of large mass of workers across the nation. The Joint Trade Union Coordination Centre (JTUCC) - a very unique model can be a good example to the countries throughout the world to initiate the united trade union voice and actions. 

JTUCC has been successful in ensuring the rights of workers in the new Constitution 2015 as well as to adopt the new labour law 2017 and social security act 2017 and Contributory Social Security System after a long struggle in Nepal. Despite of these remarkable achievements, Trade Unions in Nepal have been facing various challenges in the effective implementation of the labour legislations. Informal labour practices have been increasing in the labour market & the decent work has not been ensured in the employment. And the workers being deprived from the basic labour rights.

Considering the challenging context of threats to the fundamental rights of workers throughout the world, JTUCC is organizing the Nepal Labour Forum and mobilising  the worker's mass to raise united voice. 

Labour Forum will bring together the national trade unions, international trade union confederation, global union federations, academic experts, and other workers’ rights organisations to share the experiences and collective dialogues on the current context, challenges, and opportunities to address the labour  and employment issues ensuring the fundamental labour rights and social justice to all. 

Joint Union Coordination Centre (JTUCC)

Statement on Nepal Labour Forum

Joint Trade Union Coordination Center (JTUCC) with 1.6 million members take immense pride in hosting the World Social Forum in Kathmandu, Nepal, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, an enduring symbol of peace and a historical city renowned for its artisanal heritage.  We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for making this momentous gathering a resounding success. 

The World Social Forum, launched in 2001 in Porto Alegre, Brazil, convenes in Asia after two decades, marking its 16th  edition in Nepal under the theme "Another World is Possible" from the 15th   to 19th  February 2024. During the WSF in Nepal, various social activists worldwide gathered in Kathmandu and engaged in diverse programs alongside national and international social organisations, human rights organisations, trade unions, civil societies, youth, women, LGBTQI+ groups and social workers. The World Social Forum has provided a huge platform for social movements to exchange experiences, explore alternative perspectives, debate, and propose solutions to the pressing crises confronting humanity. Against the dominance of globalization, neoliberalism and capitalism this forum has been significant in raising united voice for democracy, peace, human rights, labour rights, migrant rights, child rights, gender equality, against all forms of discrimination, climate justice & just transition, economic justice, environmental sustainability, land, agriculture & food sovereignty, promote education, art, & culture, digital equity, social protection and justice.

JTUCC along with its 10 affiliated Confederations marched a big rally with around 7,000 union members and raised a united voice for labour rights and social justice at the inaugural ceremony of the World Social Forum on 15^th Feb, 2024. During the World Social Forum, JTUCC along with the affiliated Confederations- GEFONT, NTUC & ANTUF have hosted various events on social protection, migration and decent employment, contributory social security, and gender equality respectively. Similarly, JTUCC and affiliates Confederations placed different stalls from 15^th to 19^th Feb 2024 and exhibited & distributed various labour-related materials, productions etc.

The Joint Trade Union Coordination Centre (JTUCC) stands as the collective platform for Nepal's working class, facilitating coordination among 10 recognised National Trade Union Centers affiliated with it. JTUCC organised Nepal Labour Forum High-Level Discussions with the theme “Ensuring labour rights - Promoting Social Justice.” 

The discussion provided a thorough understanding from national and international trade unions, and labour experts on emerging challenges in the global labour market, as well as the changing political and economic landscapes and their potential impacts on the national context.

The discussions in the forum shed light on various challenges facing workers in South Asia and globally. Issues such as the changing nature of work, increasing informal employment, the emergence of new technology like automation and AI, alongside jobs insecurity, wage disparities, lack of occupational health and safety issues, gender inequality, exploitation of migrant workers, violations of workers rights, the impact of climate change and lack of social protection of workers were brought to the forefront.

The focused discussions on women and LGBTQI+ workers shed light on wage disparity and workplace discrimination. Discussions on the plight of migrant and informal workers highlighted the inhumane treatment they receive and the denial of their fundamental rights. Additionally, the discussions underscored the importance of managing new technological advancements to ensure the gradual adoption of technologies, rather than allowing them to replace millions of jobs abruptly.

Trade Unions consistently aim to attain social justice, uphold workers' rights, promote peace, and strengthen democracy. Despite dissatisfaction with current work conditions, there remains hope for improvement in the future, necessitating the provision of space for such aspirations. Presently, corporate greed prevails, leading to a lack of decent work and adequate social security. Ongoing restrictions have stifled democracy, yet trade unions persist in advocating for social justice without compromise. Holding entities accountable for human rights violations and safeguarding freedom of association are imperative. Prioritizing workers' rights over corporate interests is essential in this pursuit.

The Nepal Labour Forum collectively called for actions, emphasizing the importance of solidarity, collaboration, and advocacy for social justice, democracy, and workers' rights. The need for reform of labour regulations, including stronger regulations, improved social security measures, and the promotion of fair labour practices was underscored. Concerted efforts are required from governments, employers, trade unions, and civil society to address these pressing issues. Thus, the Nepal Labour Forum called for integrated actions by strengthening network, solidarity and support at the national, regional & international levels with serious commitments against all kinds of inequalities, insecurity and injustices. 

JTUCC along with its affiliated Confederations stands with solidarity and is committed to working together to ensure the fundamental workers' rights and promote social justice and urges all stakeholders for united actions to advocate and create a just and equitable world.