The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) extends heartfelt wishes for a joyous and safe festive season to its affiliated unions, members, workers, staff, and the entire nation.

The year 2023 posed significant challenges, encompassing job losses, immense loadshedding, lack of water supply, an increase in cash-in-transit heists, a cost-of-living crisis, persistent corruption in the public and private sectors, and mismanagement of public funds. Businesses encountered difficulties adapting to evolving economic conditions, leading to wage contractions for workers amid inflationary pressures. Despite these trials, FEDUSA acknowledges the triumphs achieved in support of its affiliated unions and workers.

A notable concern throughout the year was the erosion of collective bargaining by employers, exemplified notably by the South African Revenue Services (SARS). FEDUSA underscores that disregarding collective bargaining agreements directly undermines the hardworking labor force. The federation emphasizes the paramount importance of upholding these agreements, as any failure to do so compromises the dedication of the workforce. Noteworthy is a recent victory where a FEDUSA affiliate prevailed in a case against SARS, resolving a prolonged dispute over the implementation of a 2019 wage agreement.

Despite the challenges, FEDUSA proudly welcomed two new affiliated unions, namely the National Teachers’ Union (NATU) and the National Union of Hotels, Restaurants, Catering, Commercial Health, and Allied (NUHRCCHAW), expanding the federation's ranks to nearly 600,000 members.

Reflecting on the past year, FEDUSA remains hopeful that 2024 will be a year of prosperity, steadfastly committing to championing workers' rights and advocating for social justice for all.

 

Issued by FEDUSA