Trade Unions

With the introduction of the multi-party system and the economic liberalisa­tion, trade unions in Tanzania have been faced with new challenges. The formerly state influenced trade unions have become independent. But there are still difficulties in positioning labour interests in the social dialogue with the employers and the state. Privatisation and foreign direct investment further complicate advocacy for workers' interests.

Originating from the German workers' movement, the FES has a particular inte­rest in promoting Tanzanian trade unions to be an independent and strong democratic interest representation for employees. It fosters a social partner­ship between employers and trade unions that respects workers' rights, good working conditions and social justice.

To support the social partnership in areas such as the Tanzanian cut flower industry, the FES has facilitated a dialogue between trade unions and em­ployers. The close co-operation has been beneficial for both parties. An ex­ample for FES activities that strengthen trade unions are Info-Days that offer a platform to discuss ways of addressing national and international social and economic challenges. Furthermore, the FES strengthens the po­sition of women and young leaders within trade unions. Last but not least, the FES offers internati­onal exchange of experiences of the Tanzanian la­bour movement with its counterparts at the level of the Eastern African Community as well as with the international trade union movement and their regional branches in Africa.