Conference shines light on labour market protection systems
Mompati Tlhankane | Tuesday September 19, 2023 06:00
Held under the theme, 'A Just Transition and Decent Work: Inclusive Job Creation Approaches and Effective Market Protection Systems', the conference brought together industry captains to discuss contemporary labour, industrial relations and employment issues.
Speaking at the conference, Botswana Public Employees Union (BOPEU) president, Masego Mogwera emphasised the significance of addressing labour market protection systems.
“Labour market protection systems are an essential ingredient in achieving decent livelihoods for the working class. We must accept that the working class are essentially the working poor due to insufficient labour market protection systems and programmes which will cushion workers from the adverse effects of a low-wage market, possible retrenchments and prepare them sufficiently for life after retirement,” she highlighted.
Mogwera highlighted that inadequate labour market protection systems can leave workers vulnerable to the challenges of a low-wage job market, potential job losses, and unpreparedness for retirement. She called upon trade unions and industry leaders to play a role in creating, sustaining, and improving these systems for the benefit of their members.
Minister of Trade and Industry, Mmusi Kgafela highlighted the diverse expertise at the conference, including experts, policymakers, practitioners, and think tanks. He stressed that the conference explored strategies and best practices for inclusive job creation while strengthening labour market protection systems. Kgafela underscored the importance of creating a future where economic growth is accompanied by meaningful employment opportunities and effective labour protections to safeguard workers' rights and well-being.
“The need for this conference is paramount. In our rapidly changing world, characterised by technological advancements, environmental challenges, demographic shifts, and evolving economic landscapes, the way we work and protect our workforce is evolving as well. The transition to a more sustainable and inclusive future is not only a moral imperative but also a practical necessity,” he said.
The minister expressed gratitude to ILES and its sponsor, BOPEU, for organising conferences that facilitate engagement between social partners on issues affecting labour and business in Botswana. He emphasised that the conference addressed one of the most pressing challenges of our time: ensuring that economic progress is equitable, just, and sustainable.
The annual conference serves as a vital platform for social partners to engage and make decisions aligned with labour-related issues, contributing to the ongoing development of labour market protection systems.