At the 5th World Congress of the International Trade Union Confederation in Melbourne, Australia, held from November 17th-22nd, 2022, Jyoti Macwan, General Secretary, SEWA spoke about the importance of Universal Social Protection in the ITUC Women’s Conference and again in the ITUC Congress she spoke about the role of Waste Recyclers in the Circular Economy as part of a just transition.
In her speech on Universal social security, she stressed upon its importance in the informal sector and its valid budgetary allocation by state as well as central Governments. Social security enhances the earning capacity of workers and ultimately speeds up the National as well as local economy. She mentioned that health care coverage, Child care, education and old age benefits are most essential for these workers. She also recommended the role of trade unions in the registration, disbursement and monitoring of social security schemes to the workers.
Similarly, while highlighting the role of waste recyclers in the circular economy she said that waste recyclers are the silent warriors to mitigate climate change. Their recognition and inclusion in the Solid Waste Management program of the city is essential. She urged ITUC to recognise the vulnerability of waste recyclers and accordingly draft a convention for ILO.
SEWA, was elected in the ITUC Council and Jyoti Macwan is also Vice President here.
