Ending violence, advancing dignity: Botswana Trade Unions champion ILO C190 ratification

The Botswana Federation of Trade Unions (BFTU), the Botswana Federation of Public Sector Unions (BOEPUSU), and key government ministries joined forces to launch a national campaign to promote the ratification of ILO Convention No. 190 (C190) on violence and harassment in the world of work.

© ILO

© ILO

The campaign was preceded by a sensitisation workshop targeting the trade unions, to educate the leadership, women's groups, and young workers on C190. The training unpacked the provisions of the instrument and provided a foundation of knowledge and understanding of the manifestation of gender-based violence and harassment in the world of work, highlighted the importance of risk assessments, and provided guidance on the drafting of policies and programmes addressing GBVH, at both sectoral and enterprise levels.

The official launch for promotion of ratification of Convention 190, was held during the commemoration and celebration of Workers Day in Gantsi. . The campaign aims to raise awareness, strengthen advocacy, and mobilise support among policymakers, workers, and the public for the ratification and implementation of C190.

Adopted in 2019, C190 is the first international labour standard to recognise the right of everyone to a world of work free from violence and harassment, including gender-based violence. It applies to all workers in all sectors – formal or informal, public or private – and promotes an inclusive and gender-responsive approach.

Violence and harassment, particularly against women, remain widespread in workplaces across Botswana. Informal workers, young women, domestic workers, and those living with disabilities or HIV are especially vulnerable. The campaign addresses these realities by educating leaders, women’s groups and young workers, and by promoting accessible mechanisms for justice and redress.

Supported by the Ministry of Gender and Youth and the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs, the campaign plan to disseminate messages nationwide through radio, television and printed materials.

The campaign marks a renewed effort to advance decent work, promote equality, and ensure that all workers in Botswana can enjoy their right to dignity, respect and safety in the workplace.