International Women’s Day 2025 shines a light on the essential link between women’s labour rights and human rights. Amidst a backdrop of rising authoritarianism and aggressive political movements, the fight for gender equality and women’s rights is of utmost importance. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted three decades ago, continues to serve as a guiding framework; however, the commitments made remain unrealised for many women across the globe.
Despite notable progress in various sectors, significant obstacles persist, exacerbated by a global push from conservative factions striving to reverse advancements in women’s rights. The very essence of gender equality is threatened, and this pushback has led to restrictions on reproductive rights, escalation in gender-based violence, and hostile rhetoric against gender equality education. This environment fuels patriarchal norms and fosters an atmosphere rife with misogyny and anti-LGBTQI+ sentiments.
Trade unions remain crucial in advocating for gender equality at work and have championed the rights of all, regardless of gender or background. There is a fervent commitment to uphold the foundations laid by the Beijing Platform. The upcoming 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, which will assess the BPfA’s implementation, represents a pivotal moment. It is vital that this session aligns with workers’ aspirations for a New Social Contract that embraces gender equality and complements the Sustainable Development Goals.
The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) requests that governments act decisively to:
– Promote gender equality to eliminate all forms of discrimination and foster justice, democracy, and peace.
– Recognise workers’ rights as human rights, upholding International Labour Organization (ILO) standards, including the rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining.
– Ensure universal access to transformative social protection and quality public services.
– Create decent work opportunities for women through targeted investments and regulatory measures.
– Achieve equal pay for equal work by implementing minimum living wages and equity measures.
– Eradicate gender-based violence at work, via the adoption and enforcement of ILO Convention 190.
Alongside this, the ITUC has launched the Women in Leadership campaign to address the underrepresentation of women in decision-making positions across all sectors. This initiative seeks to increase female representation in leadership roles within trade unions ahead of the upcoming ITUC World Congress in 2027.
On March 8, the global trade union movement will unite with progressive entities, particularly women’s rights organisations, striving to fulfil the unfulfilled promises of the BPfA. The ITUC is unwavering in its quest to transform gender equality from a mere goal into a tangible reality for women and girls worldwide.
International Women’s Day 2025 emphasises that women’s labour rights are fundamental human rights, particularly amidst rising authoritarianism. The Beijing Declaration serves as a blueprint that remains unmet for many women. Trade unions advocate for gender equality and fighting discrimination in the workplace. The ITUC calls on governments for substantial actions, including improved social protections and leadership for women. The new Women in Leadership campaign aims to boost female representation in decision-making roles.
As we approach International Women’s Day 2025, the call for women’s labour rights as integral to human rights resonates deeply amidst rising challenges to gender equality. Trade unions and global movements remain pivotal in demanding respect for women’s rights and gender equality, urging governments to commit to transformative action. Through initiatives like the ITUC’s Women in Leadership campaign, there is a concerted effort to ensure women’s voices are amplified in decision-making spheres, aiming for true equity in society.
Original Source: www.ituc-csi.org
