Right to Organize

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: India
Delegate Name: William Watkins

India supports the importance of protecting workers’ individual rights to organize and bargain collectively for rights, resources, and pay, due to the necessity of these rights in guaranteeing democratic and sustainable development. Throughout the world certain types of workers, such as public servants, don’t have the right to organize, in India, public servants do not have the right to participate in illegal strikes, as public servants must maintain political neutrality. However, India believes in the rights of registered and regulated unions to bargain for greater rights or compensation. India through domestic policy and international engagement, is committed to upholding and promoting that right.
India’s constitution guarantees the right to form labor associations and unions, Article 19(1)(c), through an official legal framework for registering and functioning trade unions in the Trade Unions Act of 1926. Additionally, India’s labor laws recognize and protect workers’ rights to collective bargaining and peaceful assembly, which is a principle we wish to see in laws of other nations, and would like to see the United Nations work to support nations in furthering the enactment of laws for unions.
India advocates for the inclusion of workers’ representatives in decision-making processes at all levels to ensure their voices are heard and their rights protected. This will allow for a greater and more accurate representation of the needs of workers, which is the goal of allowing workers to organize to begin with. And bringing workers into the decision-making process will help further the extent to which regulatory laws on unions can be effectively implemented. India also promotes the dissemination of information about labor laws and mechanisms for resolving labor disputes to enhance workers’ understanding and access to justice in order to further empower them to work within the system to achieve their goals.

India is committed to promoting workers’ rights to organize and collective bargaining at the international level through registered and regulated movements. And India advocates for the inclusion of strong labor provisions in trade agreements and multilateral instruments to uphold workers’ rights globally for the sake of supporting workers everywhere. India would like to see a resolution passed in the United Nations International Labor Organization support workers’ rights to collective bargaining and promote them throughout the international community.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Ghana
Delegate Name: Andrew Dylenski

International Labor Organization
Right to Organize
Ghana
Andrew Dylenski
Forest Hills Eastern

The right to organize has been one of the International Labor Organization’s main priorities since its beginning. This right is defined as individuals coming together and bargaining for better rights, conditions, and pay on the job. In the first amendment in the Bill of Rights, the right to assembly was included, which gave Americans the right to come together and assemble over a common issue. In the 1700s, the Industrial Revolution sprung up in Britain and flowed into the rest of Europe; It introduced the idea of steam-powered machines and the factory assembly line. But, it also led to unionization by the factory workers in this era who would be working in these rough conditions in the factories. After this, the United States and many other countries in Europe recognized the people’s right to unionize and practice collective bargaining. But, even with this, there are still forms of violence and opposition by employers against unions and collective bargaining: job displacement, the denying of license renewals, and penalization are still happening in various countries. It is up to the ILO to find out common threats to the right to organize and work with governments worldwide to protect this right for all humans.

The Republic of Ghana recognizes each citizen’s right to assemble and organize and the right is constitutionally supported. Chapter 5 of the Ghanaian constitution includes the citizen’s rights to organize. The Labour Act of Ghana promises mutual trust between employers and employees in the workforce. Along with this, the act establishes the National Labour Commission(NLC), which is the main source that mediates labor disputes and allows for collective bargaining. Along with these rights, Ghana has strict labor laws that only allow for eight-hour work days and a mandatory safe workspace that is facilitated by officials. Even before the act was introduced in 2003, the Ghanaian government had been working to consolidate a framework that would protect employee rights. Despite all these measures, Ghana has still been struggling with labor problems regarding gender inequality and informal employment.

The ILO has to work to establish measures that every country’s government can follow to ensure the right to organize for all citizens while spotting the major threats to the right. The government could and should be willing to enact laws that would allow for this right in the first place. Lots of this change would have to be in the countries that discriminate against unions and restrict the practice. In these countries, there has to be a framework for punishment and penalties against those showing prejudice towards unions and collective bargaining. Also, there has to be a more widespread education program and awareness campaign for those workers who do not know they have this right; This would increase the number of employees engaging in collective bargaining and will lead to a worldwide increase.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Mozambique
Delegate Name: Ricardo Pastor

Mozambique recognizes the right to organize religious groups, allowing them to worship freely and operate schools. However, the country faces significant challenges, particularly in Cabo Delgado Province, where residents identified as Muslim continue to face risks due to attacks by ISIS-Mozambique. These attacks threaten the safety and freedom of individuals and pose a direct challenge to the right to organize and associate. Additionally, the government’s response to the ongoing violence has been criticized for exacerbating existing grievances among historically marginalized majority-Muslim populations, further hindering efforts to protect the right to organize.

To address these challenges, Mozambique must take decisive actions to safeguard the right to organize for all its citizens, including those in vulnerable regions like Cabo Delgado Province. This can be achieved through implementing comprehensive security measures to protect individuals’ freedom of association and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, can exercise their rights without fear of reprisal. Moreover, fostering dialogue and cooperation between the government, employers, and employees is crucial in creating an environment where the right to organize is respected and upheld. By addressing the root causes of social unrest and promoting inclusivity and tolerance, Mozambique can work towards building a society where the right to organize is valued and protected for all its citizens.

Works Cited
“EU – Mozambique Political Dialogue: Commitment to a partnership beyond cooperation.” EEAS, 20 June 2022.
“Five Keys to Tackling the Crisis in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado.” United States Institute of Peace, 23 June 2022.
“Insurgency in Cabo Delgado.” Wikipedia3.
“Mozambique conflict: What’s behind the unrest?” BBC, 29 March 2021.
“Mozambique: France issues travel advice on Cabo Delgado – Lusa.” Club of Mozambique, 15 Feb 2024.
“Mozambique: Humanitarian Response – Cabo Delgado Province Overview (Jan – Dec 2023).” UN OCHA, 1 Feb 2024.
“Mozambique: Clergy forced to flee, churches burnt as violence intensifies.” Independent Catholic News, 14 Feb 2024.
“MOZAMBIQUE 2020 INTERNATIONAL RELIGIOUS FREEDOM REPORT.” U.S. Department of State, 2021.
“New U.S. Plan to Address Conflict Could Boost Mozambique’s Gains.” United States Institute of Peace, 2024.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Matthew Chan

As a fundamental human right, Pakistan recognizes the importance of the right to organize. Pakistan is also aware of the many challenges that arise when addressing the right to organize due to political and economic conflicts. Pakistan calls for cooperation to advance the citizen’s ability to freely organize. In addition, Pakistan seeks to ensure protective measures.

With many difficulties and limitations to allow citizens to organize, Pakistan is still finding ways to. In the Article 16 of the Pakistan Constitution says “Every citizen shall have the right to assemble peacefully and without arms, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of public order.” Pakistan knows they need to execute these principles. Pakistan’s societal pressures have often confined citizens to organize without disruption. However, to protect against subversive elements, preserve Islamic values, and maintain social cohesion Pakistan suggest that it is within their right to supervise assemblies, and if necessary to disband the organized groups. Furthermore, Pakistan recognizes the importance of constructive communication between the government, employers, and workers’ representatives to address labor issues effectively.

With the intention of better aligning the goals of the government, employers, and workers, Pakistan promotes the continuation of communication in three-party forums to address labor issues and foster cooperation. In addition to the promotion of social dialogue, Pakistan acknowledges the need for legal reform to protect worker’s rights. Pakistan endorses review legislation regarding freedom to assemble, to remove barriers to exercise these rights. Finally, Pakistan is committed to increasing the capacity of labor ministries, to productively enforce labor laws and regulations. This includes providing training and resources to labor inspectors and establishing beneficial grievance mechanisms to address labor disputes. Pakistan reaffirms its dedication to protecting the right to organize as an essential component of labor rights and social justice. Pakistan is aware of the presence of challenges to implementing measures to handle these challenges effectively. Pakistan looks forward to constructive work to bring forth advancement in promoting and protecting this right within its borders and beyond.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: United States of America
Delegate Name: Caterina DaSilva

The United States of America has long prided itself on being a nation founded on principles of freedom, democracy, and individual rights. Among these fundamental rights is the right to organize, enshrined in international human rights standards and recognized as essential for the protection and advancement of workers’ rights. As a nation committed to upholding democratic values and promoting social justice, the United States must ensure that its laws and policies protect and facilitate the exercise of this fundamental right.
The right to organize has deep roots in the history of the United States. From the labor struggles of the 19th and early 20th centuries to the landmark legislative achievements of the New Deal era, the fight for workers’ rights and collective bargaining has been central to the progress of American society. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) of 1935, also known as the Wagner Act, was a significant milestone that recognized the rights of workers to form unions and engage in collective bargaining with their employers. Subsequent legislation, such as the Taft-Hartley Act and the Landrum-Griffin Act, sought to balance the interests of labor and management while preserving the right to organize. Despite the progress made in the past, the right to organize in the United States faces significant challenges in the present day. Anti-union sentiments, hostile labor laws, and employer resistance have undermined the ability of workers to exercise their rights freely and effectively. Legal loopholes, such as “right-to-work” laws, which weaken unions by allowing workers to benefit from collective bargaining without paying union dues, pose a direct threat to the sustainability of organized labor. Also, the erosion of worker protections, the rise of precarious employment, and the gig economy have created new obstacles to organizing efforts, making it increasingly difficult for workers to assert their rights in the workplace.
In order to uphold and strengthen the right to organize in the United States, the following policy recommendations are proposed: Reformed labor laws, including amending and modernizing labor laws to better protect the right to organize and ensuring meaningful penalties for violations for labor law. Promoting unionization, such as providing resources and support for union campaigns, granting workers greater access to information about their rights. Also by addressing the economic inequality variable that underlies this issue. This can be done by pursuing policies that promote fair wages, job security, and education and skills training. The right to organize is a fundamental human right that must be protected and upheld in the United States. Overall, national policies play a critical role in shaping the global landscape of workers’ rights and the right to organize. By adopting policies that support workers’ rights, governments can contribute to a more just and equitable global labor system, while policies that undermine workers’ rights can have negative consequences both domestically and internationally. Therefore, it is essential for policymakers to consider the broader implications of their decisions on the global right to organize and work towards policies that promote respect for workers’ rights worldwide.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Harriet Ogilvie

As a fundamental human right, Iran recognized the importance of the right to organize. Iran is also aware of the many challenges that arise when addressing the right to organize due to intercepting political and socioeconomic conflicts. Iran calls for cooperation to advance the citizen’s ability to freely organize. In addition, Iran seeks to ensure protective measures.

Iran recognizes the difficulties presented as well as the limitations allowing citizens to organize. In Article 27 of the Iranian Constitution says “Public gatherings and marches may be freely held, provided arms are not carried and that they are not detrimental to the fundamental principles of Islam.” Iran acknowledges the need to execute these principles. Iran notes Legal Framework bureaucratic procedures, and societal pressures have often confined citizens to organize without disruption. However, to protect against subversive elements, preserve Islamic values, and maintain social cohesion Iran postulates that it is within their right to supervise assemblies, and if necessary to disband the organized groups. Furthermore, Iran recognizes the importance of constructive communication between the government, employers, and workers’ representatives to address labor issues effectively.

With the intention of better aligning the goals of the government, employers, and workers, Iran promotes the continuation of communication in tripartite forums to address labor issues and foster cooperation. In addition to the promotion of social dialogue, Iran acknowledges the need for legal reform to protect worker’s rights. Iran endorses review legislation regarding freedom to assemble, to remove barriers to exercise these rights. Finally, Iran is committed to increasing the capacity of labor ministries, to productively enforce labor laws and regulations. This includes providing training and resources to labor inspectors and establishing beneficial grievance mechanisms to address labor disputes.

Iran reaffirms its dedication to protecting the right to organize as an essential component of labor rights and social justice. Iran is aware of the presence of challenges to implementing measures to handle these challenges effectively. Iran looks forward to constructive work to bring forth advancement in promoting and protecting this right within its borders and beyond.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Aanya Dogra

Committee: International Labour Organization
Topic: Right to Organize
Country: Germany
Delegate: Aanya Dogra, Forest Hills Northern High School

Employees have been unhappy with employer conditions for a long time. The first unions were created in the 1800s. The first strikes occurred way before this, estimated towards the end of the 20th dynasty, under Pharaoh Ramses III in ancient Egypt. While it is important to ensure that worker’s rights are protected and they can stand up for themselves, negative effects that come from this must be mitigated.
Germany is currently struggling with increasing strikes, though they are still fewer than neighboring countries like France and the UK. Intense labour shortages are occurring, bringing down an already vulnerable German economy. Unions are pressing for higher wages and improved working conditions to help workers deal with a cost-of-living crisis emanating through Germany, climbing 8.8%. Wages have dropped for three consecutive years since 2020.
Even though strikes may hurt our economy, it is important for Unions to have the righ to organize. Under the Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany, Article 8 states that “all Germans shall have the right to assemble peacefully and unarmed without prior notification or permission” and under Article 9 states that “all Germans shall have the right to form societies and other associations.” Any obstruction of these laws through threat, promise, or other means is illegal. Employers and work councils must ensure that any discrimination is avioded. Germany also abides by the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Protection of the Right to Organize. In addition to unions, Germany requires a works council, or Betriebsrat, for companies with over 5 employees. It is a group of elected employees that collaborate with management on behlaf of the company’s workforce. This council works to protect employee rights, may increase employee wages, give employees a unified voice for negotiations, and strengthen relationships between employers and employees. A union and works council are different bodies but both work to ensure worker’s rights are not violated.
Germany will continue to maintain our protection for our workers, but would like to find solutions that would not harm the nation’s economy. The right to strike and organize are essential to maintaining happy citizens. Germany looks forward to working with nations on this topic.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Poland
Delegate Name: Elena Petros

Poland firmly believes that the right to organize is a fundamental human right that sustains fair and just labor practices. The UN, through the International Labour Organization, has been instrumental in promoting and protecting this right on a global scale since 1919.
Currently, article 20A of the constitution of the Republic of Poland gives its citizens the right to form a union, organize, and speak their minds. However, historically, Poland has fallen under communist reign, which severely limited and restricted our right to organize, silenced our voices, and suppressed our independent labor unions. In 1989 a Solidarity movement played a crucial role in the fall of communism which paved the way to Poland’s transition into democracy.
Despite progress in recent decades, Poland faces some contemporary challenges in maintaining their right to organize. The rise of a populist party, unenforced rules of law, and restrictions on society as of late has caused growing concerns about the future of the protection of labor laws. The right to organize is fundamental to the functioning of a democratic society. It enables citizens to voice their concerns, participate in decision-making processes, and hold those in power accountable. Additionally, it restores fairness to an economy by strengthening federal laws that protect worker’s rights to organize a union and to negotiate higher wages and better benefits for their well-being.
As Poland struggles with recent challenges to preserve its democratic principles, safeguarding the right to organize becomes paramount. We beseech the international community to support our efforts to protect and reinforce our right to organize, ensuring that Poland continues to thrive as a democratic nation.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Albania
Delegate Name: Lidija Habekovic

Albania supports its citizens’ right to organize, as stated in the Constitution of Albania. Part II, Chapter III, Article 45 of the Constitution of Albania states that “everyone has the right to organize for any lawful purpose”. While this Article and many other regulations, including ratified ILO Conventions, are in place, Albania recognizes that the de facto implementation of these laws is something Albania needs to focus on.
Albania recognizes the importance of a cooperative, safe, and motivated workforce. Currently, there are two major trade unions in Albania: the KSSh, and the BSPSh. Together with the Albanian government, trade unions have collaborated to draft and edit labor laws, to supervise the enforcement of work safety laws, and to expedite the execution of housing construction plans. In an effort to further protect the rights of workers, Albania has ratified ILO Conventions 87, 98, and 151, to protect workers from workplace discrimination on account of participation in trade unions, and to ensure that workers have the right to join and create trade unions. Albania recognizes the essential role trade unions play in maintaining the well-being and structure of the workforce, and how empowering workers through labor unions can contribute to a more progressive and inclusive work environment.
However, Albania recognizes that the de facto implementation of its labor laws and ratified Conventions falls short of what is needed. There have been many instances of workplace discrimination; employers regularly create barriers that delay the recognition of trade unions. Albania acknowledges that adequate means of protection against workplace discrimination need to be put into place; Albania also recognizes that mechanisms for the promotion of collective bargaining are lacking, and hopes to take steps towards implementing new laws and procedures that protect trade unions and encourage collective bargaining in the near future.
Albania recognizes the importance of the right to organize both inside Albania and internationally. Upholding that the right to organize is a human right, Albania is excited to take action to ensure that workers and labor unions can exercise their rights without fear of discrimination. Albania looks forward to discussing and working with like-minded nations to create a resolution all parties can agree on.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Jacob Zhang

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
International Labour Organization
February, 2024
Right to Organize

The United Kingdom would like to recognize the right to organize and why this right is so important. The right to organize has been involved in the International Labor Organization’s charter since 1919, and is an essential aspect of labor rights globally. It serves as a foundation for workers who find flaws in society and would like to fight for their rights, resources, and fair pay. This topic is incredibly important because it addresses evolving challenges, including issues like the prohibition of organizing for certain worker categories, instances of violence against organizers, and governmental obstructions.
In the United Kingdom, the impact of the right to organize is profound. The historical framework, marked by conventions such as the Convention of Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organize and Labour Relations Convention, has played a vital role in shaping labor relations. There are many occurrences of international challenges in the UK, which influence the ability of workers to collectively bargain. Instances of violence and governmental obstructions pose tangible threats, affecting the local workforce’s ability to exercise their rights.
Significant progress has been made in the United Kingdom towards sustaining the right to organize. The country’s commitment to progressive legal frameworks, strong labor standards, and enforcement mechanisms has provided a positive environment for workers. However, challenges continue to persist, with ongoing considerations by the International Court of Justice on the right to strike and the need to address global issues like violence against organizers. The UK acknowledges the need for more efforts to strengthen the right to organize internationally.
To address these challenges, the United Kingdom proposes ideas for change through enhanced collaboration. This involves actively participating in international discussions, promoting the inclusion of labor rights provisions in trade agreements, and supporting initiatives that strengthen workers’ rights globally. The UK commits to further legislative and policy developments that facilitate a fair and inclusive environment for organized bargaining. Emphasizing the importance of constructive social rights, capacity building, and devotion to international standards, the UK would like to help create a future where the right to organize is robustly protected both within its borders and within the other nations.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Philippines
Delegate Name: Kyu Lee

Philippines
International Labour Organization
February, 2024
Right to Organize

In navigating the legal terrain and constitutional principles, the Philippines firmly upholds the right of all workers to self-organization, as laid out in the 1987 Constitution. Section 3 of Article XIII explicitly outlines the State’s responsibility to protect both organized and unorganized labor, guaranteeing workers the right to self-organization, collective bargaining, negotiations, and peaceful concerted activities, including the right to strike within the confines of the law. Moreover, Section 8 of the same Article reiterates the right of the people, covering both public and private sector employees, to form unions, associations, or societies for lawful purposes, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of this fundamental right.
Presently, while trade unions operate independently, they influence less than 10 percent of the labor force. Despite this, collective bargaining is common among unionized workers, and the option for strikes remains open, subject to unions providing proper notice and securing majority approval from their members.The Philippines acknowledges the essential role of a strong and progressive labor relations environment in fostering professionalized, trained, motivated, and efficient public sector employees. This is crucial for sustaining good governance and delivering high-quality public services.
In line with its commitment to international standards, the Philippines, through the ratification of ILO Convention No. 151, recognizes the need to upgrade its laws and practices regarding freedom of association and collective bargaining, especially in the public sector. This proposed measure addresses crucial gaps in public sector labor relations, focusing on the protection of the right to organize, facilities for public sector employee organizations, procedures for determining terms and conditions of employment, civil and political rights, and dispute resolution linked to the determination of employment conditions.
These proposed measures signify a step towards a more inclusive, rights-driven labor environment, reflecting the nation’s dedication to progress and fairness in its labor relations. In essence, the Philippines aims to uphold its constitutional mandate while acknowledging the need for continuous improvement in its labor relations framework, and is looking forward to discussing and meeting a strong agreement to provide this right globally.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: France
Delegate Name: Michael Stefanovski

France
International Labour Organization
February, 2024
Right to Organize

France recognizes its people’s right to organize. The right to organize and collectively bargain has been established in the UN since 1949 and France has signed on all fundamental conventions including those involving the right to organize.
Some of the greatest threats to the right to organize are pulling company benefits or incentivizing with greater benefits, prohibiting employees from conversing about the union, and slightly conveying that supporting a union would be futile. Section 8(a)(1) of the National Labor Relations act makes all of these unfair labor practices for an employer to use.
The leading goals that most unions are striving for is equality in the workplace, good benefits, retirement security, a safe workplace, and a fair salary. All of these requests are fair and reasonable, businesses that can afford it should come to terms with these requests and welcome the union. This will not only solve the problems of the unionizers but also help the employees build greater confidence in the company because that company is making an effort to change. To make sure this happens, strict laws should be put into place to ensure that terms are being negotiated and met between employers and unions, rather than businesses being able to use loopholes and threats to discourage unions.
If there are national policies imposed to protect the citizens’ right to organize, the abuse of unfair tactics to discourage unions will take a steep decline. Reprimanding businesses that are found to be influencing unions unfairly shows that the toleration of union interference is coming to an end. I hope that we can all come to an understanding to put the violations of the human right to organize to an end. France is eager to be on the committee with you where we can debate and come to an understanding on this topic.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Gabon
Delegate Name: Owen Krueger

2/15/24
Submitted to: International Labor Organization
From: Gabon
Subject: The Right to Organize
The Gabonese Republic firmly believes that workers have the right to unionize in order to argue for better working conditions and within the nation’s unions are allowed to strike as long as it is not a danger to public safety. Additionally, Gabon believes that unions should be protected to prevent workers from being exploited especially by large conglomerates. It is crucial that the UN and ILO work to ensure these protections for all workers.
Gabon recognizes that there is more to the question on the right to organize than just can workers go on a peaceful strike but how to establish international labor laws to further protect workers in nations where speaking out could be dangerous. The Gabonese Republic also recognises the rights of corporations to conduct business and believes that strikes must be carried out on proper grounds.
Gabon feels that the ILO and UN should further work towards protecting workers in exploitative environments (unfair working conditions, forced labor, limited or no government protection, and anti-union policy for example). Although the Gabonese Republic understands that workers have the right to unionize and strike this must not be unfair to the corporation or be a threat to public safety otherwise it is unproductive.
The Gabonese Republic argues that article 23 of the UN Declaration of Human Rights shows the UN’s commitment to unions and helping workers, and on top of article 23 of the UN Declaration of Human Rights should better enforce the right to organize.
The Gabonese Republic is eager to reach a solution that can suit all global needs, and looks forward to discussing this further in committee.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Stella Yakima

A Union is an organization formed by workers who come together and use their strength to have a stronger voice in the workplace. In Denmark, freedom of association and organizations are protected by law. This means all citizens and employees have the right to join a union and it is against the law for employers to discriminate against their employees for joining a union. There is an exception to this law though. If a business or company is formulated around an ideological, political, cultural, or religious idea or view, the employer can demand all employees believe in that idea. Denmark strongly believes all citizens should have a say in their workplace. It is important to have unions in workplaces because they promote human rights and enforce necessary change.
The nation of Denmark would like to expand this right that Danish citizens have to the citizens of other countries through the UN. It would benefit employees because they will have a voice and a say in their future and in the workplace as well as benefiting employers due to a sense of trust. Furthermore, these rights will improve the economy on a larger scale because small companies and businesses are improving their quality of work. It is important that unions are protected in the UN to improve economic equality, create safe environments, and to provide better benefits to those who need them.
The Kingdom of Denmark looks forward to discussing this topic more in committee!

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Malta
Delegate Name: Jake Rodbaugh

Many countries around the world not only have labor unions but also encourage them in other countries. In their 2022 Human Rights Report, the Maltese Government states that employees not only have the right to remove themselves from any situation that they deem to be too dangerous. Malta has the unionization rate in the EU, with around 1 in every 2 workers being a part of a labor union. The Maltese Government recognizes this and has since made several changes to the law to increase the protection of the labor unions. Under these current laws, labor unions have the right to request recognition from an employer. Once recognized by the said employer, the trade unions can then start to negotiate and bargain for whatever deals that they deem fit. The current EIRA ( The Employment and Industrial Relations Act), which serves as the main form of employment law in Malta, recognizes that as an association of persons, a trade union is capable of entering into contracts. Furthermore, it is also within the right of trade unions to act in contemplation or furtherance of trade disputes. Subject to certain restrictions imposed by law, a trade union is also capable of suing and being sued. Although the EIRA regulates the status, registration, and conduct of trade unions and employers’ associations, it does not prescribe or regulate trade union recognition at the workplace. In Malta, people in unions are not only protected from workplace accidents but are also protected from discrimination, too. The EIRA defines discriminatory treatment as “any distinction, exclusion or restriction which is not justifiable in a democratic society including discrimination made based on marital status, pregnancy or potential pregnancy, sex, color, disability, religious conviction, political opinion or membership in a trade union or an employers’ association”. Several subsidiary legislations enacted under the EIRA and other Acts further strengthen the prohibition against discrimination. Malta will continue to protect labor unions not only in Malta, but those around the world as well.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Shangyang Xia

The right to organize, enshrined in various International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions since its inception in 1919, remains a fundamental principle in promoting workers’ rights and ensuring their collective voice in the workplace. However, despite its longstanding recognition, the implementation of this right continues to encounter significant challenges worldwide.

In many regions, certain categories of workers, including public servants, seafarers, and those in export processing zones, face prohibitions on their right to organize. Moreover, organizers are often subjected to harassment, imprisonment, or even violence. Indonesia acknowledges the gravity of such violations and condemns any actions that impede workers’ ability to freely organize and collectively bargain for their rights, resources, and fair pay.

The Committee on Freedom of Association plays a crucial role in addressing complaints related to the right to organize. Indonesia recognizes the importance of this committee’s work in reviewing cases of violations and providing recommendations to governments. However, we emphasize the need for swift and decisive action to address these violations and ensure accountability for perpetrators.

Obstacles to the right to organize extend beyond attacks on individuals to include governmental interference such as the seizure of union property, freezing of bank assets, and denial of license renewals. Indonesia believes that such actions undermine the principles of democracy and the rule of law, and must be addressed through concerted efforts by governments, employers, and employees.

To protect and strengthen the right to organize, Indonesia advocates for greater collaboration between all stakeholders. Governments must enact and enforce laws that safeguard workers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain. Employers should respect these rights and engage in meaningful dialogue with workers’ representatives. Similarly, employees must be empowered to exercise their rights without fear of reprisal or intimidation.

Furthermore, Indonesia recognizes the interconnectedness of national policies and the global right to organize. We believe that international cooperation is essential in promoting and protecting workers’ rights across borders. By sharing best practices and coordinating efforts, countries can create a conducive environment for the exercise of the right to organize on a global scale.

In conclusion, Indonesia reaffirms its commitment to upholding the right to organize as a fundamental human right. We call upon all member states to take concrete actions to address violations, promote dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders, and ensure that workers can exercise their rights freely and without fear. Only through collective action can we truly advance the cause of social justice and uphold the dignity of workers worldwide.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Ja’Nyla Robinson

Country: Australia
Committee: International Labor Organization (ILO)
Topic: Right to Organize

Australia holds the belief that individuals inherently deserve the ability to organize and collectively negotiate free from coercion or threats. We respect organized labor’s critical role in achieving fair pay, safe working conditions, and social justice. Furthermore, Australia emphasizes the significance of providing workers with ensured protection when it comes to choosing to organize against what they believe is a violation of those fundamental rights. However, we do recognize that not everything is as easy as said. Oftentimes, laws and regulations conflict making speaking up for yourself difficult and even dangerous. With threats of bodily harm, prison time and worsening financial situations, organizing is harder than ever before. Therefore, Australia believes that fixing and improving on the rights to organize needs a specialized strategy that involves protection, advocacy, and international agreeance.

Although many laws and policies before have been put in place to try and stop the violation of these rights many of them are flawed. They tend to conflict with other laws criminalizing those who try to use their right to organize. So if current laws aren’t protecting the rights to organize now we wonder how can governments come together to protect and secure this right?

Referencing our plans to add on to the current model of the International Training Centre of International Labour Organization (ITCILO), Australia had emphasized the interconnectivity of labor rights and the necessity for a holistic approach to tackling global labor issues. Just as education and international collaboration were important in combating forced labor, Australia believes the way to increase and stabilize the right to organize is to ensure worker safety and come up with a way to make sure the regions won’t retaliate. This plan would set up systems for monitoring and reporting on member governments’ compliance with international labor standards, particularly the protection of workers’ right to organize with the use of NGO organizations. This would involve frequent assessments and reviews, as well as the spreading of status reports and suggestions for improvement. Australia is dedicated to promoting and protecting the right to organize and bargain collectively as its necessary components of a just and inclusive society.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Alaina Williams

Country: Brazil
Committee: International Labor Organization
Topic: Right To Organize

The right to organize is a fundamental right in terms of workers’ rights. Brazil, as a staunch advocate for workers’ rights, recognizes the importance of safeguarding the right to organize and is committed to fostering an environment that empowers workers to freely associate and collectively bargain.
In line with international norms, Brazil emphasizes the importance of the right to organize as guaranteed by its national laws. The 1988 Brazilian Constitution expressly guarantees employees’ freedom to organize trade unions and participate in collective bargaining. Furthermore, Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organize is one of the major ILO conventions that Brazil has ratified.
Brazil has taken steps to encourage positive communication between labor unions and companies. The nation has put in place legislative frameworks that support discussions on pay, hours worked, and other aspects of employment. Brazil is dedicated to fostering an atmosphere in which good faith collective bargaining is practiced, guaranteeing that employees have a significant say in determining their working circumstances.
Brazil admits that obstacles to exercising the right to organize still exist, such as instances of anti-union behavior and unorganized work sectors. Brazil is dedicated to supplying capacity-building programs for both companies and employees, increasing understanding of workers’ rights, and fortifying enforcement mechanisms to solve these issues.
Brazil reaffirms its constant commitment to protecting and advancing the freedom to organize. The administration stresses how crucial it is to have an atmosphere that permits employees to freely organize and participate in collective bargaining. Brazil recognizes that the freedom to organize is essential to the global growth of workers’ rights and social justice, and it looks forward to working with other ILO members to uphold and defend this right.

Topic: 2024-Right to Organize
Country: Russian Federation
Delegate Name: Michael Briggs

Michael Briggs
The Federation of Russia
Bay City Central High School
International Labour Organization

In the topic of the right to organize within Russia, we will address our lack of sympathy to the Trade Unions that are formed from the want of the workers to protect their interests, and that we do not believe that these Unions are effective in seeing through the wishes and demands of the workers, and that they should be phased out by the Russian state.

Domestically, the Russian state has observed that the trade movements and labor movements have proven ineffective. While legally we allow workers to strike, and form Trade Unions in order to protect their interests, raise their wages, improve working conditions, and meet other demands, these issues are outside control of the Russian state, therefore are not our concern. We also believe that these Trade Unions are rather ineffective in solving the issues the union of workers have. Often they can waste time, money, and cause disputes that should be avoided. Due to this, the Russian state shall express its lack of sympathy due to these glaring issues, and therefore wish to phase out the legal right for workers to organize trade unions and strike.

As to find a solution to end the dispute for the Right to Organize, Russia believes that all countries should strive to phase out the legal rights of workers striking, forming Trade Unions, and attempting to protect their interests. While it is understandable that many may see this as extreme and unethical, the Russian state believes that organizing these union disputes can often waste valuable time and resources, including money. As the only countries with these disputes are those with free trade and a capitalistic economy or view, the states cannot end or intervene in the quarries of private companies. Because of this, these disputes can often cost the state time and money, which is a line that should not be crossed. Therefore, the Russian Federation believes that the organization of unions should be made illegal by the state as to end the problems these could cause for it.

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