The Kenyan government is facing pressure from trade unions to set a timeline for ratifying the International Labour Organisation's (ILO) Convention 190, which aims to protect workers from sexual harassment, gender-based violence, and other forms of abuse. Nine public and private sector trade unions have expressed concerns over the safety and dignity of workers in Kenyan workplaces, citing delays in ratifying the convention.
The unions, led by the Union of Kenya Civil Servants Secretary-General Lawrence Nyaguti, have called for a clear roadmap and timeline for ratification, warning that workers continue to face abuse with inadequate protection and accountability mechanisms. Despite President William Ruto's directive to the Labour Cabinet Secretary to spearhead the ratification process during the 2025 Labour Day celebrations, the convention has yet to be formally adopted by Kenya.
ILO Convention 190, adopted in 2019, recognizes everyone's right to a world of work free from violence and harassment, including gender-based violence. The convention covers public and private sectors and different employment arrangements, extending protection beyond conventional employment relationships. Its accompanying Recommendation 206 provides guidance on prevention, protection, enforcement, and remedies.
The unions are demanding stronger workplace protection mechanisms, accessible reporting channels, fair investigations, and safeguards against retaliation for employees who report abuse. They also want meaningful trade union participation in the ratification and implementation process, alongside employers and other stakeholders. Nyaguti emphasized that workplace harassment affects both male and female employees, challenging the perception that sexual harassment is predominantly a women's concern.
According to Nyaguti, out of every four harassment cases reported, three involve male workers complaining about harassment. The unions also raised concerns over the shrinking space for collective bargaining, arguing that the current legal environment, including regulations by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, is making negotiations increasingly difficult.
The unions have called for sustained public awareness campaigns, workplace training, stronger institutional capacity, and effective monitoring and enforcement to ensure workers are protected across all sectors. Nyaguti stressed that no worker should be forced to endure harassment, intimidation, discrimination, or abuse as a condition of earning a living.
The ratification of ILO Convention 190 is seen as a crucial step towards creating a safer and more dignified work environment in Kenya. The government's response to the unions' demands and the timeline for ratification remain to be seen.
Key points
- The Kenyan government is under pressure to set a deadline for ratifying ILO Convention 190 to protect workers from harassment and abuse.
- The convention aims to recognize everyone's right to a world of work free from violence and harassment, including gender-based violence.
- The unions are demanding stronger workplace protection mechanisms, accessible reporting channels, and fair investigations.
