GCC unions explore formation of Gulf labour organisation
The 3rd Forum of Gulf Companies and Labour Committees, organised by the General Union of Workers of the Sultanate of Oman, concluded here on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.
The two-day forum was attended by representatives from labour unions, committees, and working women’s groups across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – including the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait.
The forum focused on supporting cooperation between unions and committees, with the aim of securing safe and decent work environments, advancing social welfare, and building a regional trade union organisation.
This organisation would advocate for improved work conditions, facilitate tripartite dialogue, and contribute to boosting worker productivity and living standards. Participants underscored the importance of collaborating to address challenges arising from economic disruptions. The need for workers to develop new skills, adapt to emerging technologies, and embrace regional economic integration was emphasised.
The forum also acknowledged the region’s unique labour market characteristics and the importance of upholding international labour standards while finding solutions tailored to the GCC context. The forum lauded the progress made in institutionalising social dialogue across the GCC and highlighted recent parliamentary reforms in social security systems.
This commitment to dialogue and innovation was seen as crucial for safeguarding worker rights and improving workplace conditions.
The heads and representatives agreed to explore the formation of a united Gulf labour organisation to provide a platform for consultation and coordination on worker issues.
Additionally, the General Union of Workers of the Sultanate of Oman’s labour organisation structure was reviewed and approved, with the exception of the National Committee for Labour Committees in Saudi Arabia.
Representatives discussed strategies to encourage women’s participation in industrial work, address associated challenges, and enhance cooperation between committees.
An action plan for 20242025 was approved, focusing on identifying best practices and developing initiatives to support women’s career paths in different
GCC countries.
The forum acknowledged the need to develop strong national regulatory frameworks for the private sector’s labour market, particularly in the context of evolving work patterns and emerging technologies like green technology, self-employment opportunities, and artificial intelligence.
The importance of coordinating labour organisations within the GCC and collaborating at Arab and regional forums to defend worker interests was also highlighted. The forum concluded with an agreement for Bahrain’s trade unions to host the 4th edition in Manama during the Q4 2024.