Trade union alliance seeks to close sugar wage gap in Latin America

This alliance, known as the Latin American Network of Trade Unions in the Sugar Industry, has jointly prepared a regional manifesto with a clear and concrete roadmap towards decent work, with special emphasis on the introduction of living wages, respect for freedom of association, the regulation of irregular subcontracting and the strengthening of occupational health and safety systems.

An urgent and proactive call

The manifesto appears in a context of large wage gaps and job insecurity affecting thousands of people working in sugarcane cultivation and processing.

The latest Fair Work Monitor report from CNV Internationaal shows that in several countries in the region, between 55% and 96% of agricultural workers in the sector do not receive wages that cover their basic needs.

The unions not only denounce the abuses, but also propose solutions: setting up a platform for regional social dialogue between workers, companies, certifiers, governments and other key actors in the supply chain to create fairer and more sustainable working conditions.

The Sugar Network manifesto was not drafted from behind a desk. It is the result of conversations, meetings and shared experiences between trade union organisations with in-depth knowledge of field and industry realities.

The manifesto is based on data collected through the Fair Work Monitor, a tool developed in the field, together with trade unions.

The message is clear: we are offering a solution. The results of the Fair Work Monitor are clear. Trade unions are ready to take action to close wage gaps and ensure decent living conditions for workers and their families.