This came at the conclusion of the organization’s Board of Directors meeting on Palestine – the Workers’ Group, with the participation of the President of the Arab Federation of Trade Unions and the Secretary-General of the Federation of Palestinian Trade Unions, Shaher Saad, along with representatives of the Arab and international unions affiliated with the United Nations organization.
The text issued by the meeting included the organization’s Board of Directors Resolution No. 352 accepting Palestine.
Saad said that the decision will be finally adopted at the International Labor Conference during June 2025, noting that the decision grants Palestine full participation in all ILO structures and gives it the opportunity to move to participating membership.
He added that for the first time, Palestine will participate in the year 2025 with a tripartite official delegation referred to as participation (government – workers – employers).
He stated that the majority in the ILO meeting room welcomed the decision with warm applause, with the exception of Israel, the occupying power, which opposed it.
The International Trade Union Confederation welcomed the decision of the Board of Directors of the International Labor Organization to transform the status of Palestine from a “liberation movement” to a “non-member observer state” with state rights based on the United Nations decision to accept Palestine as an observer state.
The Secretary-General of the International Trade Union Confederation, Luc Triangle, said, “This recognition by the International Labor Organization is a sign of hope and solidarity with the Palestinian people, who face enormous challenges to their human and labor rights,” adding that “recognition of the State of Palestine is essential for sustainable peace.”
The International Labor Organization is a United Nations agency whose mission is to promote social and economic justice by setting international labor standards.
Source: Wafa
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**Interview with Shaher Saad, Secretary-General of the Federation of Palestinian Trade Unions**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Shaher. Could you start by providing an overview of the recent Board of Directors meeting on Palestine? What were the key discussions?
**Shaher Saad:** Thank you for having me. The meeting was significant as it brought together leaders from various trade unions, including the President of the Arab Federation of Trade Unions and representatives from international unions associated with the United Nations. We focused on the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinian workers and emphasized the need for global solidarity in our fight against oppression and injustice.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the acceptance of Palestine into the organization through Resolution No. 352. What does this acceptance mean for Palestinian workers and unions?
**Shaher Saad:** This decision marks a crucial step forward for Palestinian labor rights. It validates our struggles on an international stage and strengthens our network with other unions globally. It also highlights our fight against what we describe as genocide and underscores the importance of ending the occupation. By receiving this recognition, we hope to garner more support and resources to advocate for workers’ rights in Palestine.
**Interviewer:** The unions called for a global response to the situation in Palestine. What actions are you urging international workers to take?
**Shaher Saad:** We are calling on workers around the world to stand in solidarity with us. This includes participating in awareness campaigns, organizing demonstrations, and engaging in boycotts where necessary. It is crucial that we amplify our voices and bring attention to the injustices inflicted upon Palestinian workers and their families. Solidarity is our strongest weapon in dismantling the structures of oppression.
**Interviewer:** what are the next steps for the Federation of Palestinian Trade Unions following this meeting?
**Shaher Saad:** We plan to finalize the resolution formally, which will establish concrete actions and collaborations with international partners. Additionally, we are preparing outreach programs to educate workers on the situation in Palestine and mobilize collective efforts. Our goal is to ensure that the plight of Palestinian workers remains visible and relevant in labor discussions worldwide.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Shaher, for sharing these insights and for your ongoing work in advocating for Palestinian labor rights.
**Shaher Saad:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue this conversation and work together for a better future.
