Factsheet: The Future of Work: Worker Organizing and Power in Africa's Informal Economy

Abstract

Factsheet: The Future of Work: Worker Organizing and Power in Africa’s Informal Economy Across Africa, the structure of work and of labor markets are undergoing a profound transformation driven by a range of developments. These include the rapid digitalization of work, growing demand for care services, rising levels of labor migration, and the pressures of climate change which are propelling a transition across sectors. As a result, informal and non-standard forms of employment are increasingly common. In response, new worker organizations are emerging outside the bounds of traditional unions to fill this gap, developing new forms of collective power and solidarity. In addition, unions and worker groups are increasingly advocating for reforms that not only seek protection for their members but also influence policies toward a more equitable future. The Future of Work: Worker Organizing and Power in Africa’s Informal Economy FACTSHEET highlights central findings how worker organizing and labor power-building are evolving in response to major shifts, and offers recommendations to strengthen collective action and policy engagement for meaningful worker power and wellbeing.