SA’s global labour voice strengthened with election of Meth

South Africa’s influence and participation in international labour affairs have been strengthened after Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth was elected to a decision-making organ of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

- Eric Mthobeli Naki

Meth was elected on 12 June as vice-chair of the ILO government group, which serves as the ILO’s executive council and its supreme decision-making body outside the International Labour Conference.

Among other tasks, the group is responsible for shaping labour policies, setting agendas, adopting the programme and budget and electing the director-general.

During the election, Meth received overwhelming support from all 187 ILO member states for the new position.

A position on the governing body is highly regarded, particularly the vice-chair role, as it carries significant influence over global labour standards and social justice policies affecting millions of workers worldwide.