ILO strengthens labour dispute resolution in Uganda

The International Labour Organization (ILO) conducted a five-day training to equip Uganda’s Industrial Court officials with the skills to apply International Labour Standards (ILS) in labour dispute resolution. The training covered key areas such as freedom of association, job security, equal opportunities, and eliminating child labour.

Amanda Mejía Cañadas emphasized the significance of ILS in shaping fair labour policies, stating, “The aim is to promote social justice through decent work for all, from prohibiting forced labour to shaping employment policies for equal opportunities.” Uganda has ratified three of the four key conventions on equal opportunities and treatment.

Through case law analysis, group exercises, and discussions, participants deepened their understanding of ILS within Uganda’s legal framework. Justice Linda Lillian Tumusiime Mugisha, Head Judge of the Industrial Court, reflected on the complexities of labour disputes, saying, “We must consider faith, organizational culture, and management policies when making fair legal decisions.”

A key highlight of the training was the integration of digital learning tools. As part of ILO PROSPECTS’ digitalization efforts, participants used tablets to access legal resources, case references, and ILS databases. “Now that we have the tablets, we know how to use them to guide our decisions. This will make us more effective,” noted panelist Jimmy Musimbi.

Evans Lwanga, Chief Technical Advisor for ILO PROSPECTS Uganda, emphasized that the benefits extend beyond the courtroom. “This knowledge will help not just the judiciary but also those handling labour issues in ministries and other sectors.”

By strengthening the capacity of legal professionals, this initiative contributes to a fairer and more just labour dispute resolution system in Uganda, ensuring better protection for workers, including refugees and displaced persons.