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The Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC) has declared its full solidarity with the workers and trade unions of Senegal following their nationwide 24-hour general strike, describing the industrial action as a legitimate and democratic expression of workers’ rights.
In a statement issued on July 13 through its Secretary General, Max K. Conteh, the Congress commended the Front Syndical pour la Défense du Travail (FSDT) for successfully mobilising workers across Senegal’s public, parastatal and private sectors during the July 10 strike.
The SLLC said the widespread participation demonstrated the strength, unity and maturity of Senegal’s trade union movement and reflected workers’ determination to defend decent work, social justice, democratic participation and meaningful social dialogue.
The Labour Congress further praised the peaceful and disciplined conduct of the strike, noting that workers had exercised their legitimate trade union rights responsibly while ensuring their concerns were heard nationwide.
According to the statement, the scale of participation showed that the issues raised by workers resonate broadly and should be treated as matters requiring serious engagement rather than confrontation.
The SLLC called on the Government of Senegal to respond by initiating sincere, constructive and good-faith negotiations with the FSDT. It stressed that recognising workers’ grievances alone would not be sufficient, adding that concrete measures through genuine social dialogue and respect for existing commitments are necessary to resolve the concerns raised.
The Congress emphasised that sustainable development, industrial harmony and social stability can only be achieved through mutual trust and cooperation between governments and social partners.
It also warned that unilateral decisions affecting workers’ livelihoods risk undermining public confidence and weakening democratic governance. The SLLC reaffirmed that respect for freedom of association, collective bargaining and inclusive social dialogue remains essential for building resilient, equitable and prosperous societies across Africa.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Sierra Leone Labour Congress’ unwavering commitment to standing with workers and trade unions across the continent in advancing labour rights, democratic values and social justice through peaceful and lawful means.
