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Industry wage settlements in 2019 | Q3
The highest percentage increase on actual wages in Q3 of 2019 was recorded in the mining, quarrying, financing, insurance, real estate and business services industries, at 9%.
Industry wage settlements in 2018 | Q3
The highest percentage increase on actual wages in Q3 of 2018 was recorded in mining and quarrying industries, at 9%.
MNC Trends Report 2013
The annual MNC Trends Report provides key information concerning the performance, operations and governance of JSE-listed South African multinational companies operating in Africa.
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Building diversity and inclusion in trade unions and the workplace
What do we need to create safe and inclusive trade unions and workplaces free of homophobia? Trade union activists who have consciousness, passion, knowledge and skills to advocate for the rights of workers who are LGBT+.
Inflation Monitor | February 2021
The headline inflation rate slowed to 2.9% in February 2021 from 3.2% in January 2021.
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How to negotiate with employers during difficult times
The company you’re bargaining with is in a genuine crisis and can’t afford any salary increases. What should be in your counter-proposal?
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Trade Unions in AfCFTA
Social justice and decent jobs in one African market: Working together to strengthen the capacity of the trade union movement in Africa to engage on matters relating to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Bargaining Benchmarks | March 2021
Bargaining Benchmarks is a resource for role players in collective bargaining in South Africa.
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Questions and answers about the national minimum wage review – An interview with Trenton Elsely, Commissioner, National Minimum Wage Commission
“The minimum wage is a victory for ultra-low wage workers. We have an established floor where there was none before, and we can raise that floor and ensure that no worker is left behind,” says Trenton Elsely, Commissioner, National Minimum Wage Commission.
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8 labour market trends for trade unions to watch in 2021
Some of the key areas trade unions can direct their energy and resources in 2021.
Inflation Monitor | January 2021
The headline annual inflation rate increased to 3.2% in January 2021 from 3.1% in December 2020. Food price slowed to 5.6%.
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The Future of Work: Covid-19 Edition
The covid-19 pandemic fast-tracked some of the predicted changes in the world of work. Learn what the changes may mean for workers in African multinational companies.
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Covid-19 vaccination: “But what if I don’t want to?”
The possible discriminatory consequences of a mandatory covid-19 vaccination policy at the workplace.
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The new national minimum wage for South Africa is R21.69 per hour
The new minimum wage is R21.69 per hour, an increase of 4.5%. The minimum wage for domestic workers is still below the national wage at R19.09.
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Future of Work: How should we respond?
Some basic principles for unions to follow as they anticipate the impact of the changing nature of work on organising and bargaining.
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How to become an effective shop steward during the covid-19 crisis
The new workplace issues presented by the covid-19 pandemic require shop stewards to be proficient with the guidelines and direction for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS).
Inflation Monitor | December 2020
The headline annual inflation rate declined to 3.1% in December 2020 from 3.2% in November 2020. The Consumer price index increased by 0.2% month-on-month in December 2020.
Inflation Monitor | November 2020
The headline annual inflation rate declined to 3.2% in November 2020 from 3.3% in October 2020. On a month-on-month basis the inflation rate came at 0% in November 2020 from 0.3% in October 2020.
Behavioural change in the workplace: Health and safety training manual
This training manual is for educators in unions, companies and other resource organisations to use as a guide to train and support employees, shop stewards and other worker representatives around staying safe in their workplaces during COVID-19 and beyond
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Covid-19 support measures for workers in South Africa
Business as usual for trade unions went out of the window in 2020. Unions had to alter how they delivered value to their members and recruited new ones.
Inflation Monitor | October 2020
The headline annual inflation rate went up to 3.3% in October 2020 from 3% in September 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in October 2020.
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Online course: creating gender equality in the workplace
This online course designed by the LRS for the Online Learning Academy of International Federation of Workers’ Education Associations (IFWEA) is for activists who want to facilitate gender equality education programmes.
Inflation Monitor | September 2020
The headline annual inflation rate increased at a slower pace of 3% in September 2020 from 3.1% in August 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.2% month-on-month in September.
Inflation Monitor | August 2020
The headline annual inflation rate slowed down to 3.1% in August 2020 from 3.2% in July 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.2% month-on-month in August 2020.
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The living wage is dead, Long live the living wage!
This one goes out to the trade unionists and anyone else who understands that what few gains the working class have made, they have made through struggle.
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A Guide to Winning Strikes
Trade unions in South Africa often use strikes to advance and defend the rights of their members. Learn how to plan an effective strike.
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The right way to handle retrenchments
It’s crunch time for trade unions as more workers face retrenchments by companies navigating the impact of the covid-19 pandemic. Here’s a recap of section 189 of the LRA to get you up to speed.
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Bargaining at company level: A basic guide for shop stewards
A basic guide for new shop stewards to follow when bargaining at company level.
Inflation Monitor | July 2020
The headline annual inflation rate rose to 3.2% in July 2020 from 2.2% in June 2020. On average, prices increased by 1.3% month-on-month in July 2020.
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Collective bargaining agreements during covid-19
Can trade unions continue to successfully negotiate protections for workers in uncertain times?
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7 feminist books to read during August Women’s month
Here’s a collection of my favourite books written by women workers, survivors of gender-based violence, school girls and community activists. The writers’ reflections are powerful and empowering.
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Women’s Month 2020: Putting care at the centre of the agenda
A conversation with Nina Benjamin, Leader of Gender Equality Programme at the Labour Research Service
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The value of labour after the pandemic
Bárbara Figueroa, president of Chile’s Central Union of Workers, argues for the need to reflect on and review our practices as a labour movement and as a species.
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Transformative women’s leadership in the time of covid-19
“The pandemic made us to explore alternative models of leadership that are not militaristic, patriarchal and undemocratic.” Crecentia Mofokeng, Regional Representative for Africa, Building and Wood Workers’ International
Inflation Monitor | May 2020
The headline annual inflation rate decreases to 2.1% in May 2020 from 3% in April 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.6% month-on-month in May 2020.
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What the pandemic reveals about women’s activism and feminism
President of Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Associations and StreetNet International, Lorraine Ndlovu, on how the covid-19 pandemic affected her activism. “We are rethinking our approach to women’s leadership development.”
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Amazon into Africa: Why you should care
Amazon announced it’d would hire 3000 people in South Africa to work ‘virtually’ in various roles. But what does this mean and why should you care?
Working to end school-related gender-based violence: Writings by representatives of education unions from Eastern, West and Southern Africa
Inspiring stories written by participants in the Education Unions Take Action to end School-Related Gender-Based Violence initiative.
Inflation Monitor | April 2020
The headline annual Inflation rate decreased to 3% in April 2020 from 4.1% in March 2020. On average, prices increased by 0.5% month-on-month in April 2020.
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Workers hit hard in level three lockdown
Both private and public sector workers continue to bear the brunt of the Covid-19 lockdown, despite eased restrictions and some industries opening.
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UIF covid-19 relief fund: Using the law to get wins for workers
Vulnerable workers in South Africa face destitution in the absence of a viable channel for individual applications to the UIF’s covid-19 Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme.
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Covid-19: Concession process for teachers with comorbidities
Public education sector unions signed a collective agreement on the procedures to follow when dealing with teachers who are at a higher risk of complications if they contract Covid-19.
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June is Pride Month
Despite the progressive laws, workers who are LGBTI+ continue to experience violence and discrimination.
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How are African trade unions responding to Covid-19 pandemic? 10 key points in a new report
Practical suggestions for emergency online solutions for trade unions.
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Covid-19 pandemic: a perfect storm for LGBTI youth
With the school closures, reduced support services and a lack of community support, these young South Africans are more vulnerable.
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Holding a virtual board meeting during the covid-19 pandemic: How we did it
Trenton Elsely, Executive Director of Labour Research Service, speaks about organising the first-ever online board meeting of the organisation.
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Answers to many of your questions about the operations of the CCMA during the covid-19 lockdown
Do I require a permit to travel to the CCMA? Will cases be heard at plant level? What if my boss refuses to consent to online-based hearing? Get the answers to your questions straight from CCMA director, Cameron Morajane.
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Beyond covid-19 lockdowns
African countries must ensure functioning economies where jobs are secured and trade unions are fully involved in decision-making.
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Secure in insecurity: Organising workers in South Africa’s private security industry
Amazing things can happen when a diverse group of worker representatives is given a safe space to be themselves. A safe space is good for learning, trying new roles and building solidarity.
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Workers’ Day 2020
Workers’ Day 2020 message from the Executive Director of Labour Research Service, Trenton Elsely.
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A tribute to care workers on International Workers Day
Let’s acknowledge, value and celebrate the paid and unpaid care work of women across the globe.
Inflation Monitor | March 2020
The headline annual inflation rate decreased to 4.1% in March 2020 from 4.6% in February 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in March 2020.
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The covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the lopsided impact of the crisis on LGBT people in South Africa
Nkosinathi Zwane says the covid-19 pandemic has affected his small business and his dignity as a gay worker.
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Retail industry after covid-19
Economists have predicted massive job losses in South Africa due to covid-19 pandemic. But what does this mean for the retail sector?
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COVID-19: Implications for retail sector
As one of the few businesses allowed to operate in South Africa during the covid-19 lockdown, are retailers doing enough to ensure protection and fair compensation of workers?
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Double lockdown
How do we slow the spread of Covid-19 without shutting down the livelihoods of poor households?
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COVID-19: Implications for waste reclaimers
The coronavirus pandemic has worsened the plight of waste reclaimers. Here’s how the government can support the workers helping to save up to R750m in potential landfill costs per year.
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COVID-19: Implications for domestic workers in South Africa
At the mercy of their employers, domestic workers in South Africa have little legal recourse in cases of unfair and inhumane treatment.
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Covid-19 is locking down livelihoods
Support working class families in South Africa through the covid-19 pandemic.
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How to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 crisis on informal sector workers
A network of organisations representing informal workers in South Africa wants the government to provide social and economic support to millions of workers in the informal sector amid covid-19.
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Creating safe and inclusive trade unions and workplaces free of homophobia
What will it take to build LGBT inclusive workplaces in South Africa? We support the efforts of trade unions to build inclusive and safe workplaces where LGBTI workers feel free to claim their rights.
The impact of COVID19 on informal workers in South Africa
How to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 crisis on informal workers in South Africa.
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COVID-19 and world of work: Impacts and responses
The ILO’s preliminary assessment concerning the possible impacts of coronavirus on the world of work proposes a range of policy options to mitigate these impacts and facilitate strong recovery.
Workplace preparedness guide for covid-19 | Department of Employment and Labour advisory
The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires an employer to provide a safe working environment for employees.
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Coronavirus and workers in South Africa: Know your rights and responsibilities
The spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and subsequent government reactions have both employees and employers uncertain. Know your rights as a worker.
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Coronavirus: Getting Workplaces Ready
How to prevent the spread of the covid-19 in your workplace and the measures to take when travelling to work and organising organising meetings and events. Applying the OHS Act.
Inflation Monitor | January 2020
The headline inflation rate increased to 4.5% in January 2020 from 4% in December 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in January 2020.
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What have we learned about trade union organising in changing workplaces?
With the rising inequality in South Africa, strong trade unions are a force for good in society. Here’s why unions need to invest more in organising and recruitment.
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Recruiting workers to the trade union: Tips for organisers
Trade union recruitment in South Africa is lax, yet the strength of organisations largely depends on growing membership. Here’s an effective approach to recruiting members.
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National Minimum Wage Commission Progress Report
Key insights, challenges, progress and prospects of the national minimum wage in South Africa.
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School-related gender-based violence: How to make a difference
Research on violence in schools in South Africa shows the issue is worsening. South African Democratic Teachers Union has mapped the key action areas to end the violence.
Inflation Monitor | December 2019
The headline inflation rate was 4% in December 2019 compared to 3.6% in November 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in December 2019.
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Know your basic rights in the workplace
South Africa’s constitution and the various labour laws protect workers. Workers who know about their rights are better able to protect themselves. Know your rights.
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16 priority demands for collective bargaining
Worker representatives have identified the priority demands that will strengthen the collective bargaining agreements covering millions of workers in South Africa.
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Women workers in South Africa and the battle for equality
Twenty-five years after Beijing, there’s progress for women workers in South Africa but major challenges remain.
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The role of teachers in preventing gender-based violence in schools
Teacher unions in South Africa are confronting school-related gender-based violence to restore a safe learning environment and the dignity of the teaching profession.
Inflation Monitor | November 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 3.6% in November 2019 from 3.7% in October 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.1% month-on-month in November 2019.
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A commissioner’s guide to improving your chances of winning CCMA cases
Commissioner Nhlanhla Ndaba offers a quick refresher to worker representatives on navigating CCMA processes.
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The Death Sentence of Being a Girl Child in The Gambia
In The Gambia where the prevalence of female genital mutilation in women aged 15-49 is 74.9%, trade union activists are breaking the culture of silence to ensure the girl child is safe.
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Ideas for trade union growth in South Africa
National Negotiator at SADTU, Shiyinduku Twala, says trade unions need to adapt to the changing workplace if they hope to remain effective.
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A marriage not made in heaven
A trade union activist’s personal tragedy sparked a flame that’s helping to fuel the fight against school-related gender-based violence in Sierra Leone. #EndSRGBV
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A facilitator’s reflection on old methods and new lessons for ending school-related gender-based violence in Africa
Nina Benjamin, LRS Gender Equality Programme Leader, takes stock of her role supporting teacher trade unions in sub-Saharan Africa to create safe schools.
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A right to learn without fear: working to end school-related gender-based violence in schools
School-Related Gender-Based Violence is violence that undermines the bodily integrity, human rights, and gender equality of all those involved in the school but primarily that of the school child.
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Six ways to end gender-based violence
The root cause of gender-based violence is inequitable gender norms. What can you do to help end GBV?
The national minimum wage legislation post enactment – Key insights, challenges and the journey ahead
Chair of National Minimum Wage Commission, Prof Adriaan Van der Walt’s presentation at the 3rd Annual CCMA Shop Stewards & Union Officials Conference in September 2019.
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The fourth industrial revolution risks leaving women behind
South Africa’s labour market is more favourable to men than to women, and the fourth industrial revolution may widen the gap, writes Dr Rachel Adams, Research Specialist at Human Sciences Research Council.
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The Issue of Dignity in Health Facilities in South Africa
The key infrastructure challenges for community health care workers in South Africa who form part of the Ward Based Primary Health Outreach Teams.
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How does Massmart treat workers in Africa?
Trade unions in the retail sector in Africa have found ways of working together and with unions globally to ensure decent work in multinational corporations.
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Applying a Decent Standard of Living (DSL) measure towards a coherent policy design
In the context of policy making in South Africa, it is easy to lose the big picture of the direction in which the country hopes to move. We unpack some of the policy implications for the DSL.
Inflation Monitor | October 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 3.7% in October 2019 from 4.1% in September 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in September 2019.
Inflation Monitor | September 2019
The headline inflation rate declined to 4.1% in September 2019 from 4.3% in August 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in September 2019.
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Many jobs in South Africa could soon be automated, and the country isn’t prepared
Dr Daniel B. le Roux investigates the impact of automation on economies in the developing world.
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Ending violence and harassment in the world of work is a union issue
Trade unions campaigned for ILO Convention 190 on ending violence and harassment in the world of work. The challenge now is getting the governments to ratify the convention.
Inflation Monitor | August 2019
The headline inflation rate rose to 4.3% in August 2019 from 4% in July 2019. On average, prices increased by 0.3% month-on-month in August.
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Where does the DSL come from?
We now have a socially derived definition of a decent standard of living (DSL) in South Africa. The DSL was developed using simple steps that included what ordinary people thought.
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There are more ways to live a decent life than just through money
South Africa’s government has struggled for many years to develop the right policies to beat poverty.
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Supporting collective bargaining for workers in precarious forms of employment
What will it take for worker leaders and the LRS to create resources that support collective bargaining for workers in precarious forms of employment?
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Strong trade unions can help reduce inequality in South Africa
NUMSA negotiator, Oupa Sifume, says collective bargaining in South Africa is under attack and only strong unions can deliver on the mandates from workers to reduce inequality in our society.
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A life without struggle in South Africa is achievable
In among all the numbers, we have lost sight of dignity, and our value and worth as human beings. So how do we bring dignity back into the equation?