The ITUC is equally concerned by the lack of a social dimension in the current draft agreements. Indeed, to avoid trade between the ACP and Europe leading to the exploitation of workers, it is essential that all parties to EPA agree to uphold workers' fundamental rights such as the right to form trade unions and to bargain collectively.
Yet, as of this date the inclusion of a social chapter has not been accepted by the West African region. This remains a source of serious concern to all trade unions both in Europe and in the ACP.
The ITUC has on many occasions demanded that EPA negotiations take place under conditions of full transparency and on the basis of formal consultations with the social partners. It goes against all basic principles of good governance to negotiate such important trade deals without involving the social partners whose members are ultimately the ones that will bear the costs and benefits of EPAs.
International Trade Union Confederation
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