An Analysis of Bilateral Labour Migration Agreements, Policies and Practices Regulating Labour Migration in East and Southern Africa: Role and Actions of Trade Unions through Social Dialogue

This ACTRAV report assesses bilateral labour migration agreements, regional policies and governance mechanisms in East and Southern Africa through the lens of workers’ rights and social dialogue. It examines international, continental, regional and national frameworks, the protection available to migrant workers, and trade union participation in policy design, implementation and monitoring. The report identifies encouraging practices alongside gaps in implementation, workers’ protection and meaningful union involvement. Its recommendations focus on stronger social dialogue, cooperation between unions in countries of origin and destination, and labour migration governance grounded in international labour standards, equality and decent work.