On November 14, 2026, workers from various sectors in Benin convened at the Cotonou Labor Exchange for the Benin Salaried Workers' Forum. The gathering aimed to address the continuous degradation of their living and working conditions, as well as the erosion of their rights and democratic freedoms. The forum was initiated by worker organizations to provide a platform for discussing common concerns and exploring collective solutions.
The forum's theme, "Faced with the degradation of our working and living conditions, and serious attacks on our rights, trade union and democratic freedoms, Benin workers, let us mobilize to satisfy our demands!" was emphasized by Soulé Saka, a healthcare worker and member of the organizing committee. Saka welcomed participants and highlighted the urgency of collective action in response to the challenges faced by workers.
Norbert Kouto, president of the CSTB presidium, presented the introductory communication, focusing on the socio-economic situation of workers and the growing difficulties they face. He noted that the cost of living and precariousness have increased, concluding that workers have moved from poverty to extreme poverty. This stark assessment underscored the gravity of the social situation denounced during the forum.
Septime Biadja, a tourism and transport ministry worker, stressed the need for workers to take charge of their own destiny. He encouraged them to become more invested in finding solutions, emphasizing that collective engagement is crucial for improving their situation. Biadja asserted that workers themselves must address their problems, expressing confidence in their ability to effect change.
Following the discussions, participants formulated several demands, which were compiled in a final communiqué. These demands include significant salary increases, adjustments to the SMIG and retirement pensions, and concrete measures to combat the high cost of living, particularly regarding rent, transportation, food, and energy.
The workers also called for the repeal of laws they deem restrictive to workers' rights, the effective restoration of the right to strike and trade union freedoms, and an end to intimidation and sanctions against workers and their union leaders. Furthermore, they demanded measures to combat precarious employment, restore abolished bonuses and allowances, and improve working conditions and social protection.
The forum concluded with a decision to establish a sustainable engagement and mobilization beyond individual union organizations and sectors. A monitoring committee will be set up to ensure the implementation of adopted resolutions. If satisfactory responses are not forthcoming, workers reserve the right to take all necessary and lawful actions to address the situation.
Key points
- Workers in Benin demand better wages, rights, and working conditions.
- The forum calls for collective action to address the deteriorating living and working conditions.
- A monitoring committee will be established to oversee the implementation of the workers' demands.
