In this interview with the editor, Lilieth Harris from the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions, discusses trade union issues in the Caribbean.

Can you describe the main characteristics of the trade union movement in the Caribbean?

As a region, the Caribbean movement is now emerging from a cyclical period of introspection and self-analysis. The challenges of globalisation and international competitiveness, at the very least, have provided the opportunity, if not the necessity for this analysis. Central to the movement’s approach therefore, are policies of collaboration and consultation, effective use of the principles of tripartism, social responsibility, and the fierce defence of workers’ and trade union rights.

What are the key issues and challenges facing trade unions in the region?

Not surprisingly, Caribbean trade unions have not been immune from the adverse effects of globalisation and hemispheric integration. This has taken a heavy toll on the economies of many of our countries, with the most vulnerable groups like small farmers, women workers, and workers in general feeling the effects most. For many the price has been too high. This is particularly the case in those islands whose economies have been based on traditional agricultural crops, such as sugar and banana. In many cases these have been single crop economies, which have not able to adapt to these global changes.

Therefore, as almost a daily challenge, workers in the Caribbean must deal with issues such as redundancies, lay-offs, downsizing and the casualisation of the labour force.

Collectively as a region, the labour movements attention will now be focused on issues relating to the establishment of a Caribbean Single Market and Economy, as part of the realties of CARICOM.

The regional movement has not been totally caught off guard, as it had begun to take steps to prepare itself and its members for these eventualities. In this regard, education and awareness programmes, and special campaigns have been undertaken over the years. Perhaps the real challenge has been the scope of the problems, especially in the smaller islands and the fact that in many cases, governments’ economic strategies have not proven effective in preparing or assisting the labour market to deal with these changes.

What are the main problems which stand in the way of strengthening the trade union movement?

These are among the main concerns for the region:

• the day-to-day challenges created by the economic downturn of most island states/countries;
• withstanding the onslaught of anti-union sentiments and practices;
• challenges to continue to build union organisation and to continue the work of strengthening the labour movement, at the national and regional levels;
• drive to ensure the relevance of trade unions despite the changing economic environment and industrial relations climate affecting the Caribbean labour market;
• maintaining a system which will ensure an effective education and outreach programme, and the dissemination of information for the union leadership and its membership.

How do you see the role of trade union education in helping to meet current challenges?

Perhaps the most effective tool (in addition to solidarity building) is the building of workers’ knowledge and information base. Trade unions must operate from a position of knowing the facts, and having the ability to provide a critical analysis and empirical evidence on any issue. In many cases therefore it will mean radically changing the way trade union education and research programmes are operated. The Caribbean labour movement understands this. It has already taken steps, for example: representation to CARICOM Heads of Government forums, regional conferences position papers etc. There continues however, to be the challenge of ensuring that at both the leadership and membership levels, the message is understood so that the correct action is taken to deal with the many challenges.

Your organisation is in the process of joining IFWEA. What do you hope to gain from affiliation?

The positive impact of international solidarity is always anticipated when one affiliates to an organisation such as IFWEA. Also seen as positives are the sharing and exchanging of ideas, material and publication among affiliates and networking.