Trade Union Freedoms

Trade Union Freedoms
(Arab Trade Union Confederation Educational Platform)

Dear colleagues,
We are pleased to present this lesson on the Arab Trade Union Confederation’s educational platform, focusing on one of the core pillars of democratic trade unionism: trade union freedoms.

Trade union freedom is a fundamental human right and the cornerstone of any free and independent trade union practice. It is explicitly enshrined in international instruments, particularly ILO Conventions No. 87 and 98, and guaranteed by many national constitutions and labor laws. However, in practice, these rights continue to face restrictions and violations in various contexts—especially within our Arab region.

Through this lesson, we aim to:
• Introduce the concept of trade union freedoms and their importance in securing the right to organize, bargain, and act collectively.
• Review the international legal framework, especially the relevant ILO conventions.
• Discuss the main violations and restrictions that trade union freedoms face today and how to confront them through legal and union-based strategies.
• Explore case studies from the Arab region that highlight both the challenges and the resilience of workers in defending their rights.
• Learn about monitoring and advocacy mechanisms, including how to document violations and engage international bodies such as the ILO and UN human rights mechanisms.

This lesson will include visual and written materials, real-world case studies, sample reporting templates, and interactive exercises to enhance practical understanding of the topic.

Defending trade union freedoms is not only about the right to organize—it is also a struggle for democracy, dignity, and social justice, and a vital condition for building strong, independent unions that truly represent workers.

Let us engage with this lesson with awareness and commitment, and work together toward a free and secure trade union environment in our region.