Mogadishu, Somalia - On May 1, 2024, Somalia joined the rest of the world in commemorating International Labor Day, a significant occasion that recalls the historic struggles and achievements of the trade union movement across the globe. This year, the Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) and its affiliated unions celebrated the day with a call for decent work, social justice and democratization in the country.
As Somalia continues its quest for stability and development, Somali workers put forward essential demands to rebuild a progressive nation where no one is left behind. The celebration of workers’ strength and solidarity was an opportunity to highlight their crucial role in building a just and equitable society.
FESTU highlighted the importance of decent work as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. Workers’ demands emphasized the need to guarantee dignified working conditions, fair wages and fundamental rights for all Somali workers, whether in the formal or informal sector.
Social justice was also at the heart of the Somali workers’ concerns. They called for the fight against inequality, poverty and discrimination, and for inclusive economic and social policies that benefit all Somali citizens.
Alongside these demands, the unions emphasized the importance of democratizing the country. They called for political reforms aimed at strengthening citizen participation, transparency and government accountability, in order to create an environment conducive to economic growth and the well-being of all Somalis.
Through this commemoration, Somali workers reaffirmed their commitment to building a better and fairer Somalia for all.
