Caribbean labour leaders meet in Guyana, urged stronger protection for workers

Amid rapid global change, Caribbean labour leaders are calling for decisive action to better protect and empower workers.

Trade unionists from across the region, along with executives of the International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF), began their seventh regional meeting on Thursday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal.

Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, who delivered remarks at the opening, urged countries to prioritise human capital development.

He stressed the need to encourage young people to view industries such as agriculture, food production and hospitality as modern, opportunity-filled sectors.

“These are industries that sustain our economies and can offer fulfilling, future-ready careers,” Griffith said.

He also highlighted the ongoing challenge of skilled migration in the Caribbean, noting that countries must invest in innovation and create opportunities locally to retain talent.

Griffith further warned that while the world of work is evolving rapidly, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence, technology must not replace human workers.

Over the two-day meeting, discussions are expected to shape policies aimed at strengthening workers’ rights and improving inclusivity—especially in sectors like the restaurant industry, where union representation remains limited.

IUF General Secretary (ag), Kristjan Bragason, pointed to increasing pressures on workers in agriculture, food production and tourism.

He underscored the importance of unions in addressing these challenges and called for renewed efforts to organise younger workers, women and migrants.

“We need to reach new workers… and ensure that our members are not left without strong representation,” Bragason said.

He also emphasised the need for greater protection of migrant workers, urging that their rights be fully recognised in both regional and global labour discussions.