The Musine Kokalari Institute for Social Policy held a meeting this week with a representative of the Private Sector Trade Union, where current challenges in trade union organization and the need to strengthen inter-union cooperation were discussed.
During the meeting, the need for an actor or structure to take a leading role in bringing unions together and fostering joint discussions was emphasized, as the current situation was assessed as weak. In this regard, creating an initiative to bring unions closer for coordinated action was considered a priority.
The discussion also addressed the state of social dialogue and institutional mechanisms. It was noted that this issue is currently delegated to the Ministry of Labour, while the Economic and Social Council was assessed as non-functional. It was also underlined that trade unions remain fragmented, including within broader union structures.
One of the key priorities identified was the unification of trade unions through the development of a shared list of priorities, which would help identify areas for closer and more effective cooperation.
Several other important issues were discussed:
- • around 70% of members are women, reflecting strong representation in this sector
- • the importance of exchanging experiences among trade unions was emphasized
- • despite having a large membership, the union operates with a limited and unstable budget
- • the May 1st protest was highlighted as an important activity for addressing workers’ demands
- • the union was assessed as well-organized and supportive of workers seeking assistance
- • a lack of interest in trade unionism and low awareness of its importance were noted
- • it was emphasized that no protest or strike takes place without union approval
- • a lack of worker information on legal aspects and trade union organization was identified
The Institute will support the union in addressing these issues by contributing expertise to strengthen inter-union cooperation, increase awareness, and advance social dialogue.
The meeting served to identify the need for more coordinated action and to strengthen the role of trade unions in protecting workers’ rights in the private sector.
(This activity is supported by the Kosovo Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) program “EJA Kosovo”, co-funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and Sweden.)