The Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions (CETU) has highlighted the challenges faced by Ethiopian workers, citing their inability to meet basic living expenses with their current salaries. Despite repeated appeals to the government, these concerns have yet to be addressed.

In a recent statement, CETU emphasized the urgent need for government intervention, particularly in reducing income tax to alleviate the financial burden on workers. The union urged the government to prioritize this issue and take decisive action following collaborative discussions.

While legislation such as the Labor Affairs Act mandates the establishment of a wage board to set minimum wage standards, CETU noted that practical implementation has been lacking due to the absence of regulatory enactment by the Council of Ministers.

Additionally, CETU emphasized the importance of enforcing laws related to occupational safety and health in the workplace. They highlighted instances where employers neglect these regulations, leading to serious injuries and fatalities among workers. Urgent action is required to ensure compliance with these laws and safeguard the well-being of employees.

As Ethiopia commemorated the 135th International Workers’ Day, CETU reiterated its commitment to advocating for the rights and livelihoods of workers, emphasizing the collective role in fostering peace and prosperity within the nation.