Employers and trade unions collaborate to improve working conditions

In October 2024, the CMTU and MFLSP organized outreach sessions in Umnugovi province to raise awareness about labour rights and the risks of forced labour among coal truck drivers, with support from the USDOL-funded Bridge-II project.

Following these sessions, approximately 40 representatives from coal transportation companies and trade unions gathered to discuss ways to improve working conditions and protect drivers. The seminar aimed to address identified violations, promote accountability among employers, and foster improvements at the company level.

At the beginning of the seminar, Mr Adiya, a national expert, introduced the fundamental principles and rights at work, with a specific focus on forced labour. This was followed by a presentation from the CMTU on the labour rights of coal truck drivers in the Tavan Tolgoi area of Umnugovi province.

National experts, leaders of the Mongolian Transport, Communication, and Petroleum Workers’ Union and Trade Union Federation of Umnugovi aimag, and officials from the MFLSP led thematic sessions covering topics such as employment contracts, sectoral and provincial collective agreements, work and rest hour regulations, occupational safety and health, social security, and employers’ responsibilities.

The seminar also provided participants with an opportunity to share their challenges, experiences, and local solutions to common problems. During the event, Mr Ragchaa, Vice President of CMTU, urged all stakeholders in the coal transportation sector—including employers, trade unions, and regulatory bodies—to commit to ongoing collaboration and proactive engagement in creating a safer, more equitable working environment for coal truck drivers.