Honorable Justina Jonas

12/06/2026

The 14th International Labour Conference (ILC) 2026 officially concluded today. As delegates return home, there is a strong sense of pride in Namibia’s outstanding performance throughout the Conference.

A historic milestone for the global digital economy was achieved with the adoption of the Convention concerning Decent Work for the Platform Economy. This landmark Convention strengthens the protection and promotion of the rights of workers engaged by platform-based companies, including ride-hailing and online delivery services such as Yango and other digital platform operators.

Sincere appreciation is extended to the Minister of Justice, Labour and Industrial Relations, the entire Namibian delegation, workers’ and employers’ representatives, and particularly Madam Mundjanima, Spokesperson of the African Government Group, for their leadership, dedication, and successful contribution to the negotiations that led to the adoption of the Convention.

Key Provisions of the Convention

* Applies to all platform workers, whether classified as employees or independent contractors.
* Guarantees fundamental labour rights, including freedom of association, collective bargaining, non-discrimination, elimination of forced and child labour, and safe working conditions.
* Requires protection against workplace injuries, violence, harassment, and online abuse.
* Ensures workers are classified according to the reality of their working relationship, not merely contractual labels.
* Provides for timely and transparent payment, including minimum wage protections where applicable.
* Ensures access to social security protection comparable to that of other workers with similar employment status.
* Establishes safeguards on algorithmic management, including transparency in automated decision-making, explanations of significant decisions, and access to human review of suspensions, deactivations, and payment disputes.
* Protects workers’ personal data and privacy.
* Prohibits discriminatory or unlawful account deactivation or termination.
* Requires clear information on working terms and access to effective dispute resolution and remedies.

Main Objective

The Convention aims to ensure that work performed through digital platforms provides decent work, fair treatment, transparency, and social protection, while recognizing the growing importance of the platform economy.

The final text of the Convention has been shared for information and educational purposes

12/06/2026

11/06/2026

The closing statement by the Chairperson of the ILC 2026 Recurrent Discussion on Social Dialogue and Tripartism raises an important question:

Is our tripartite system fully implemented across all public and private sectors, or is it limited to the Ministry of Justice, Labour and Industrial Relations?

This is a discussion that we must have, because there can be no social justice without effective social dialogue and tripartism

Social dialogue and tripartism have proven to be essential tools for promoting industrial harmony, strengthening democratic participation, and supporting sustainable economic development. Countries that have embraced effective social dialogue have been better positioned to grow their economies, improve working conditions, and achieve inclusive development

It is therefore important to assess the extent to which our tripartite system is being implemented and whether all stakeholders are being meaningfully engaged at every level

11/06/2026

Namibia has ratified the key ILO standard on tripartism and has also ratified several important conventions that support social dialogue.

Tripartite consultation standard

Namibia ratified the ILO’s tripartite consultation convention:

* ILO Convention No. 144 — ratified on 3 January 1995 and currently in force. This convention requires regular consultation between government, employers’ organizations, and workers’ organizations on ILO-related labour standards matters

10/06/2026

BWI GOLD PIN

10/06/2026

This evening marks a historic moment in my life as I was honored with the BWI Gold Pin by the leadership of Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) in recognition of my contribution to improving the working conditions of building and wood workers around the world, and especially in my beloved country, Namibia

This Gold Pin represents dedication, hard work, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to serving and representing workers across the globe

I am deeply grateful to the BWI leadership, especially Mama Crecentia Mofokeng, Ambet Yuson, the entire African leadership, NUNW, MANWU, and all my colleagues who have believed in me throughout my journey. Thank you for supporting me, believing in my potential, and never judging me for my convictions or the challenges I faced along the way

A special thank you to President Per-Olof for representing millions of workers and for presenting me with this prestigious BWI Gold Pin