Trade Union Conference on Addressing Violence and Harassment in Public Sector Workplaces
Download pdf
The event, a step in advancing South Africa’s implementation of ILO Convention 190 (C190), brought together unions, government, and employers to discuss how to make workplaces safer and free from violence and harassment. Over three days, participants explored progress, challenges, and practical strategies for enforcing C190, culminating in a strategy session to guide future action toward dignified and inclusive work environments.
- Read this in:
- en
Held from 7–9 October 2025 in Johannesburg, the conference gathered unions, government officials, and employers to advance the implementation of ILO Convention 190. The event reviewed progress since South Africa’s 2021 ratification, showcased union-led initiatives, and discussed research showing widespread workplace gender-based violence and harassment. Participants identified key challenges—such as weak enforcement, underreporting, and harmful workplace cultures—and called for stronger laws, inclusive policies, and better training. The conference ended with a commitment to collaboration between unions, government, and civil society to build safe, fair, and gender-responsive public workplaces.