The ITUC-Asia Pacific expresses deep concern over recent developments in Nepal, following public statements by the newly elected Prime Minister indicating an intention to abolish trade unions in the public sector.
These remarks come at a critical moment as Nepal undergoes transition following the Gen Z protests in September 2025 and the subsequent elections in March 2026. The new government articulated a strong mandate for reform, including towards job creation and strengthening of social protection.
While these priorities align with long-standing demands of the trade union movement, the ITUC-Asia Pacific asserts that any move to dismantle public sector unions would constitute a serious violation of fundamental labour rights, including freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining.
“The reported declaration to abolish public sector unions is deeply troubling and cannot be justified under any circumstances,” said Shoya Yoshida, General Secretary of ITUC-Asia Pacific. “Trade unions are not obstacles to reform. They are essential partners in building democratic, inclusive, and sustainable societies. Violating freedom of association and collective bargaining erodes the foundations of democracy itself.”
At the same time, ITUC-Asia Pacific urges the Government of Nepal to uphold its international obligations and respect core labour standards. “Sustainable development and social stability cannot be achieved without meaningful social dialogue and the full participation of workers and their representatives,” Shoya Yoshida said.
The ITUC-Asia Pacific warns that any move to abolish or undermine trade unions could reverse years of progress made by Nepalese workers and their unions. Over the past decades, trade unions in Nepal have played a constructive and stabilising role, contributing to key legislative gains such as the Trade Union Act.
“Nepalese trade unions have demonstrated that unity and strategic engagement can deliver real gains for workers,” Yoshida added. “But the challenges ahead will require even stronger coordination, deeper engagement with workers, and a more proactive role in shaping the country’s future.”
The ITUC-Asia Pacific emphasises that the current political context demands greater responsibility from the Nepalese trade union movement. This includes continuing to work closely together, remaining firm in defending fundamental labour rights, and engaging more actively and strategically in shaping national policies. Nepalese trade unions also need to strengthen public trust and outreach to ensure that workers and the broader public understand the essential role of unions in national development.
The ITUC-Asia Pacific reaffirms its solidarity with the trade union movement in Nepal and stands ready to support their efforts to advance workers’ rights, democratic governance, and social justice.
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