International Day for the Eradication of Poverty: Trade union representation as a key solution

Poverty remains a serious concern worldwide, affecting millions of people across all continents. Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in the EU in the fight against poverty, thanks to collective efforts by governments, organizations, and communities.

However, this fight has gradually lost its momentum with the recent global events and rising costs of living/ inflation. The United Nations Special Rapporteur on poverty and human rights, Olivier de Schutter already warned about this situation when he declared:

‘Whether in Europe, where inflation has hit a record high of 10 per cent, or sub-Saharan Africa where food prices have risen by nearly 24 per cent, household budgets across the world are being stretched beyond breaking point, meaning even more people in poverty. (…) As with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is once again the most vulnerable that are paying the price of world events. The combined crises are expected to throw an additional 75 to 95 million people into extreme poverty this year alone.’

European countries are experiencing a rise of in-work-poverty, with 1 in 10 EU workers in such conditions. In today’s article: ‘Workers will remain trapped in poverty until governments respect trade union rights’, in reference to the need of governments ensuring living wages for all workers, he pleades in favour of ensuring living wages for all workers.

A living wage is the income necessary for a worker to meet their basic needs, including food, shelter, and healthcare, without relying on government assistance or additional employment.

Klaus Heeger, CESI Secretary General said: ‘Europe needs living wages and more trade union representation to combat the working poor phenomenon. We need to ensure that our growth is reflected in extending social safety net programs, to those in need, offering a lifeline and access to basic services to vulnerable groups. On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, it is crucial to reaffirm our commitment to the goal of ending poverty in all its forms. Trade unions, social dialogue, and collective bargaining are crucial tools for negotiating fair wages. Encouraging workers to join unions and engage in collective bargaining can help secure living wages.’

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty serves as a reminder for the goal of eradicating poverty and creating a world where every individual can enjoy a life of dignity and opportunity.