The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has applauded the landmark Advisory Opinion delivered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on May 21, 2026, affirming that the right to strike is protected under the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (Convention No. 87).

The ICJ clarified that freedom of association is not limited to the right to form or join unions but also encompasses the ability to bargain collectively, engage in social dialogue, and take lawful collective action, including strikes.

In a statement sighted by GhanaWeb, the federation described the ruling as a historic victory for workers, trade unions, and democratic labour relations worldwide.

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“This decision represents a major victory for workers, trade unions, freedom of association, collective bargaining, and democratic industrial relations across the world,” part of the release read.

The GFL underscored that the right to strike is not a licence for chaos but a disciplined instrument within democratic labour relations, particularly when negotiations and mediation fail.

“Regulation of strike action is necessary, but such regulation must remain reasonable, proportionate, and consistent with the effective enjoyment of freedom of association,” GFL added.

The federation also lauded Ghanaian lawyer Paapa Kwasi Danquah, Director of Legal and Human and Trade Union Rights at the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), for his strategic leadership in advancing the case.

“His leadership represents a significant Ghanaian contribution to a historic global victory for workers,” the statement noted.

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With Ghana currently reviewing its labour legislation through the proposed Labour Bill, the GFL has urged lawmakers to ensure that the principles affirmed by the ICJ are fully reflected in national law.

The federation cautioned that any labour law recognising unions but disabling their ability to act collectively would reduce freedom of association to a mere formality.

The GFL also reaffirmed its commitment to lawful and responsible trade union action, insisting that the right to strike must remain an essential guarantee of workers’ collective voice.

SA/BAI

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