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In a significant step towards improving the working conditions and livelihoods of millions of individuals employed in the agri-food sector, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has unveiled a comprehensive set of guidelines aimed at promoting decent work practices. The guidelines, titled “Decent Work in the Agri-food Sector: A Roadmap,” offer a holistic framework that addresses the various challenges faced by workers in this crucial sector while also considering the sustainability of food production systems. The agri-food sector plays an indispensable role in global food security and supply chains. However, it is often plagued by issues such as inadequate wages, poor working conditions, lack of access to social protection, and limited bargaining power for workers. The ILO’s new guidelines acknowledge these challenges and provide a roadmap for governments, employers, workers, and other stakeholders to collaborate in creating a more equitable and sustainable work environment. Key highlights of the guidelines include: The launch of these guidelines marks a pivotal moment in the global effort to improve conditions for agri-food workers and promote sustainable agricultural practices. By aligning policies and actions with these principles, countries can foster an environment where agriculture becomes not only a source of livelihood but also a dignified and respected profession. As the world faces ongoing challenges related to food security, climate change, and labor rights, the ILO’s new guidelines provide a comprehensive roadmap towards a more equitable and sustainable agri-food sector.

The Somali Plantation and Agriculture Workers Union (SPAWU) has expressed grave concern regarding the dire situation faced by the Hiran agriculture workers in the wake of devastating floods. The recent floods have wreaked havoc on the region, severely impacting the livelihoods and well-being of the agricultural workforce in Hiran. SPAWU has highlighted the challenges and hardships being endured by the agriculture workers in Hiran, who are grappling with the aftermath of the floods. The inundation of fields, destruction of crops, and damage to infrastructure have left these workers in a vulnerable position. Many have lost their homes, possessions, and even loved ones, exacerbating the already precarious situation of these laborers. The union has emphasized the urgent need for immediate assistance and support to the affected agriculture workers. They are not only facing the loss of income due to the destruction of crops and farmlands, but they are also dealing with the trauma of displacement and the disruption of their daily lives. Access to clean water, shelter, food, and medical aid has become a pressing concern for these workers and their families. SPAWU has called upon local authorities, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to rally together and provide timely relief efforts to the affected agriculture workers. This includes distributing emergency supplies, providing medical attention, facilitating temporary shelters, and devising strategies for the recovery of the agricultural sector in Hiran. In addition to short-term relief, the union also emphasizes the need for long-term solutions to address the vulnerabilities that agriculture workers face in the face of natural disasters like floods. This includes measures such as improved infrastructure, resilient farming practices, and access to insurance or support systems that can help these workers recover more effectively after such incidents. As the situation unfolds, SPAWU’s commitment to supporting the Hiran agriculture workers remains steadfast. By raising awareness about the challenges faced by these workers and advocating for their needs, the union aims to ensure that they receive the assistance and resources necessary to rebuild their lives and livelihoods in the wake of this devastating flood event.