TRADE UNIONS In accordance with the historical principles of the FES, the issue of industrial relations and the role of trade unions has at all times been given particular attention. The programme aims at strengthening the labour movement in order to enable effective participation in the decision-making process and social-economic reforms. At present there are about 25 trade unions in Botswana, all of them affiliated to the Botswana Federation of Trade Unions (BFTU). FES and BFTU have a long-standing co-operation since BFTU was formed in 1971, comprising three unions at that time. It has grown since then with a total membership of about 30,000, the strongest affiliates being the Mine Workers Union and Manual Workers Union. The labour movement in Botswana today is beset with problems, which makes it difficult to have a significant impact in the country. Out of the 298,900 formally employed Batswana in 2005 only about 10% are members of any union. In order to increase the influence and strength of the trade union movement, FES is supporting BFTU in the process of restructuring and the consolidation from 25 organisations to about 13 strong and viable unions. Additionally, the transformation of public sector associations (e.g. for the teachers) into unions will enhance the political weight of the labour movement in Botswana. In order to strengthen the unions involvement in the political debate a general “Position Paper” on policy issues has been published in 2004, more in depth position papers on privatisation, regional integration, economic policy, social security, education etc. are presently being developed. An update of the 2003 "Trade Union Country Report" is planned for 2007. Furthermore, FES has been assisting the BFTU by providing links to international trade union organisations, and the training for officials and members. Training curricula cover areas such as collective bargaining, strategic planning, labour standards, labour law, social security and the effects of globalisation. Special emphasis is given to strengthening women within the labour movement. Top of the page
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