On September 30, 2026, Ivoirian Minister of State Anne Désirée Ouloto-Lamizana called for the resumption of social dialogue with trade unions in Abidjan. She emphasized the need for a responsible and active dialogue, stating that "the holidays are over" and it is time to return to work. This meeting took place in the presence of several ministers, including those responsible for Health, National Education, and Technical Education.
The social dialogue comes amid persistent expectations from civil servants and state agents regarding bonuses and other financial issues. Minister Ouloto-Lamizana mentioned that the government has conducted a study on the matter, which provides elements for consideration. However, she stressed that this study is only a tool for decision-making and not a government decision in itself.
The minister emphasized that the government's goal is to find a durable and equitable solution, rather than simply granting bonuses. She announced that the dossier is being processed and that decisions will be made in due time. A meeting of the Public Service Consultative Committee is scheduled for October 15, 2026.
Minister Ouloto-Lamizana invited sectoral social dialogue committees to submit their activity programs for 2026-2027 and to engage in respectful dialogue. She emphasized that their common responsibility is to address sector-specific concerns while maintaining overall coherence in the public service.
The minister encouraged trade unions to trust their leaders and adopt a constructive approach. She also stressed that dialogue should go beyond individuals and be guided by a sense of responsibility. Her ambition for the next stage of social dialogue is for "Peace 2027 to be more radiant than the 2022-2027 cycle."
This ambition, she explained, must be accompanied by improved working and living conditions for public agents, which is essential for public service performance. Soro Mamadou, secretary-general of the Humanism trade union and spokesperson for the G8 organizations, expressed gratitude to Minister Ouloto for her attention to their concerns.
The G8, which brings together five trade unions and three public service federations, reaffirmed its commitment to continuing social dialogue and negotiating on issues affecting civil servants and state agents. The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the country director of the International Labor Office (ILO) for Côte d'Ivoire and other countries.
Key points
- The Ivoirian government aims to find a durable and equitable solution to the concerns of civil servants and state agents.
- Minister Ouloto-Lamizana has called for a resumption of social dialogue with trade unions.
- The next stage of social dialogue aims to improve working and living conditions for public agents.
