_______________

OPINION

By Mariam Wangadya

This year’s Labour Day theme, Improving Access to Labour Justice: A Prerequisite for Increased Productivity, resonates deeply within Uganda’s society.

This theme not only underscores the pivotal role of fair and equitable treatment of workers but also reaffirms the fundamental human rights that are intertwined with labour justice.

In the context of Uganda, where challenges such as unsafe working conditions persist, addressing these issues becomes imperative to foster a conducive environment for economic growth and social development.

At the heart of the theme lies the recognition that access to labour justice is not merely a legal matter, but a fundamental human right. Every worker deserves to be treated with dignity, fairness and respect in the workplace.

However, the reality in some workplaces is far from ideal. Cases of discrimination and hazardous working conditions continue to plague the labour landscape, undermining the well-being and productivity of workers across various sectors.

To confront these challenges, collaborative efforts are essential. It is incumbent upon stakeholders, including the Government, employers, trade unions, civil society organisations, and others to come together and address the systemic barriers to labour justice.

Central to this collaboration is the need for a robust legal and policy framework that safeguards workers’ rights and ensures access to justice for all.

We must recognise that Uganda has made significant strides in establishing an enabling environment for addressing labour complaints and disputes. The enactment of labour laws and regulations, such as the Employment Act and Occupational Safety and Health Act, demonstrates a commitment to protecting the rights of workers and promoting safe working conditions. Moreover, the establishment of mechanisms such as labour tribunals and arbitration boards underscores the government’s dedication to enhancing access to labour justice.

However, legislative and institutional frameworks alone are not sufficient. Effective implementation and enforcement mechanisms are equally crucial.

Here, the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) plays a pivotal role. As an independent body mandated to promote and protect human rights in Uganda, the UHRC has a responsibility to ensure that workers’ rights are upheld and respected. By investigating complaints, conducting inquiries and advocating policy reforms, the UHRC contributes significantly to improving labour justice and safety in the country. Furthermore, the UHRC serves as a watchdog, holding both state and non-state actors accountable for any violations of workers’ rights. Through monitoring and reporting mechanisms, the UHRC sheds light on any existing systemic issues and advocates meaningful reforms to address underlying challenges.

By amplifying the voices of workers and advocating their rights, the UHRC plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within Uganda’s labour landscape.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which exacerbated existing vulnerabilities and inequalities in the labour market, the need for strengthened labour justice mechanisms is more pressing than ever. The pandemic highlighted the precariousness of informal employment, the inadequacy of social protection systems and the disproportionate impact on marginalised groups, including women and migrant workers.

In this context, efforts to improve access to labour justice must be inclusive and responsive to the needs of all workers, particularly the most vulnerable. As we commemorate Labour Day 2024, let us reaffirm our commitment to advancing labour justice as a prerequisite for increased productivity and human rights in Uganda.

Let us recognise the interconnectedness of labour rights with the broader principles of social justice, equality and dignity for all.

By working together, we can create a brighter future where every worker enjoys their rights, and no one is left behind.

The writer is the chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission