Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87) - Eritrea (Ratification: 2000)

The Committee notes the Government’s comments on the observations submitted by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in 2012, which relate to the right to elect trade union representatives in full freedom. As to the ITUC allegations that all unions, including the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers and its affiliates, are kept under close scrutiny by the Government, and that public gatherings of over seven persons are prohibited, the Committee recalls that the rights of trade unions to organize their administration and activities and to hold public meetings and demonstrations are essential aspects of freedom of association. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information as to how it ensures the respect of these rights in practice. The Committee takes note of the observations provided by the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) in a communication received on 1 September 2014, and the Government’s reply thereon.

Article 2 of the Convention. Right of workers without distinction whatsoever, to establish and join organizations. In its previous comments, the Committee hoped that the Civil Servants’ Proclamation would be adopted shortly so that all civil servants have the right to organize, in accordance with the Convention. The Government once again states that the drafting process of the Proclamation is at the final stage for approval, and that civil servants will have the right to organize under its section 58(1). Observing with concern that the Government has been referring to the imminent adoption of the Civil Servants’ Proclamation for the last 12 years, the Committee urges the Government to take all necessary measures to expedite the adoption process of the Proclamation so as to grant without further delay the right to organize to all civil servants, in conformity with the Convention. The Committee reminds the Government that it may avail itself of the technical assistance of the Office in this regard, if it so wishes.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.