IN CONVERSATION WITH Ashley Benjamin (Deputy general secretary)
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As South Africa commemorates Workers’ Day on 1 May, the Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) has taken the opportunity to reflect on the hard-won gains and ongoing challenges facing the country’s workforce. Marking 27 years of advocacy, FEDUSA—South Africa’s second-largest labour federation—has issued a strong statement highlighting both progress and persistent inequality in the labour landscape.
In its statement, FEDUSA acknowledged the significant advances made since its inception, noting that through the tireless work of its affiliates and members, it has helped secure better working conditions, fair wages, and essential benefits for workers across multiple sectors.
“These achievements are not just FEDUSA’s victories,” the federation noted, “they are milestones for all South African workers and contribute to building a more just and equitable society.”
However, FEDUSA also warned of a stark contrast between progressive labour laws and ongoing abuses in the workplace. It raised concerns about employers who continue to flout regulations, putting vulnerable workers at risk.
In its statement, FEDUSA acknowledged the significant advances made since its inception, noting that through the tireless work of its affiliates and members, it has helped secure better working conditions, fair wages, and essential benefits for workers across multiple sectors.
“These achievements are not just FEDUSA’s victories,” the federation noted, “they are milestones for all South African workers and contribute to building a more just and equitable society.”
However, FEDUSA also warned of a stark contrast between progressive labour laws and ongoing abuses in the workplace. It raised concerns about employers who continue to flout regulations, putting vulnerable workers at risk.