The Union générale des travailleurs algériens (UGTA) has called for collective action to address the persistent pressure on purchasing power in Algeria. UGTA's Secretary General, Amar Takdjout, emphasized the need to prioritize social dialogue in responding to economic challenges. He acknowledged that wage increases have been regular in recent years, but their impact has been largely offset by rising prices of essential products.
Takdjout noted that certain enterprises have supported their employees significantly, while others struggle to improve remuneration. He attributed the current tensions on prices not only to external factors but also to speculative practices that exacerbate the situation. According to Takdjout, these practices cause more harm to purchasing power and society as a whole. The UGTA Secretary General urged labor unions, associations, and political formations to reclaim their role as forces of proposal.
Takdjout expressed concern over the lack of in-depth debates on economic and social difficulties, stressing that solutions cannot emerge without collective reflection. He acknowledged that his organization has been insufficient in its efforts to provide thoughtful responses. Takdjout denounced a "cerebral laziness" where actors often limit themselves to formulating demands without expecting concrete answers. He also lamented the distance between labor unions and employer organizations.
The UGTA Secretary General called for renewed consultations between labor unions and employer organizations to anticipate social tensions and mitigate their impact on economic activity. He emphasized that partners must assume their responsibilities in preserving the social character of the State. Takdjout also highlighted the precarious situation of workers on temporary contracts, citing cases where employees have been on such contracts for ten, fifteen, or even thirty years.
Takdjout advocated for revising the mechanisms of professional insertion and better protecting workers against abusive contract terminations. He criticized situations where workers are denied the indemnities they are entitled to. The UGTA Secretary General also defended the expansion of union representation to professional categories that are underrepresented, such as independent workers, retirees, and precarious employees.
The UGTA has submitted proposals for amendments to the 2023 legislation on the exercise of union rights and the prevention and resolution of collective labor conflicts. These proposals, developed by a commission within the union, focus on labor relations, union rights, and the situation of independent workers. Takdjout stated that the UGTA is awaiting a response from the Ministry of Labor and is prepared to continue discussions.
Takdjout also raised concerns about moral violence and harassment in the workplace, a issue being addressed by the UGTA in collaboration with international organizations. He highlighted the need for accurate data on this problem and called for employers and managers to assume their responsibilities in preventing it. The UGTA Secretary General warned that neglecting this issue could have consequences for the functioning of enterprises and public services.
Key points
- UGTA calls for collective action against inflation and speculative practices.
- Labor union urges renewed social dialogue and measures to protect purchasing power.
- UGTA proposes amendments to 2023 legislation on union rights and labor conflicts.
