Since its formation in 1985, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has achieved significant victories for workers and broader society. These successes reflect its commitment to workers’ rights, social justice, and economic transformation.
Anti-Apartheid Era (1985–1994)
- Unity in the Labour Movement (1985): COSATU united over 30 trade unions, representing 450,000 workers, creating a formidable force against apartheid and economic exploitation.
- Mass Mobilizations and Strikes:
- Organized the 1987 National Mineworkers’ Strike, one of the largest and most significant labor actions, involving over 300,000 miners.
- Coordinated national protests and stay-aways, contributing to the broader anti-apartheid resistance.
- Living Wage Campaigns: Advocated for fair wages for all workers, raising awareness of income inequality during apartheid.
- International Sanctions Campaign: Worked with global partners to push for economic sanctions against South Africa, isolating the apartheid regime.
Post-Apartheid Legislative Reforms (1994–2000)
- Labour Relations Act (1995):
- Strengthened collective bargaining rights.
- Simplified dispute resolution mechanisms, improving workplace fairness.
- Basic Conditions of Employment Act (1997):
- Established minimum standards for working hours, wages, and leave.
- Employment Equity Act (1998):
- Promoted workplace transformation by addressing racial and gender inequalities.
Economic and Social Justice Advocacy (2000–2010)
- Minimum Wage Campaigns: COSATU consistently fought for fair wages, achieving significant wage increases for various industries, particularly in agriculture and domestic work.
- Opposition to GEAR: Critiqued and resisted the government’s neoliberal Growth, Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) strategy, advocating for policies that prioritize workers’ rights and reduce inequality.
- Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF): Played a role in expanding UIF coverage and improving benefits for unemployed workers.
National Minimum Wage (2019)
- After years of advocacy, COSATU successfully lobbied for the introduction of the National Minimum Wage Act (2019):
- Ensured a baseline wage for millions of South African workers.
- Helped reduce extreme poverty and income inequality.
Gender Equality and Worker Protections
- Maternity Leave and Family Protections: Advocated for improved maternity leave and protections for women in the workplace.
- Health and Safety Standards: Strengthened workplace safety regulations, particularly in mining and manufacturing industries.
COVID-19 Pandemic Response (2020–2021)
- Worker Relief Advocacy:
- Ensured the Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) provided financial assistance to workers during the pandemic.
- Called for extended UIF benefits to protect workers facing economic hardships.
- Fight Against Austerity: Pushed back against austerity measures that threatened public sector jobs and wages.
Broader Impacts:
- Solidarity Across Borders: COSATU has supported labor movements across Africa and internationally, advocating for workers’ rights and social justice globally.
- Public Sector Advocacy: Secured better wages and conditions for public sector employees, including teachers, healthcare workers, and civil servants.
- Living Wage Campaigns: Improved wage standards in various industries, contributing to reduced poverty and inequality.
Legacy of COSATU Victories:
COSATU’s achievements highlight its commitment to improving the lives of South African workers and the broader population. Through its advocacy, legislation, and activism, it remains a powerful voice for social justice and economic transformation.
