South Africa appoints national tripartite focal points for the promotion of the ILO MNE Declaration

The Department of Employment and Labour has formally appointed national tripartite focal points to promote the International Labour Organization (ILO) Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (ILO MNE Declaration) in South Africa.

This milestone follows the successful national tripartite workshop held in October 2023, jointly organized by the Department of Employment and Labour and the ILO, as well as South Africa’s current participation in the SUSTAIN – Sustainable Trade and Investment in Southern Africa Project, a programme that aims to advance decent work outcomes in trade and investment, funded by the European Union.

The following national focal points have been appointed:

• Government: Department of Employment and Labour
• Employers: Business Unity South Africa (BUSA)
• Workers: Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA), South African Clothing and Textile Workers’ Union (SACTWU), and the National Council of Trade Unions (NACTU)
• The National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC)

The national focal points will serve as champions for the promotion and application of the ILO MNE Declaration, its principles, and operational tools. The ILO MNE Declaration provides guidance to governments, employers, workers, and enterprises in areas such as employment, training, conditions of work and life, and industrial relations.

National focal points carry out various activities and programmes, including awareness-raising, organizing dialogues, and guiding policy discussions on responsible business practices aligned with international labour standards.

The appointment of national focal points underscores South Africa’s commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth in line with international labour standards and the principles of responsible business conduct.