Hard-won labour rights are coming under attack around the world. An increasing number of countries are restricting freedom of association, denying workers the right to unionise, strike and engage in collective bargaining.

The ITUC’s 2020 Global Rights Index reveals that violation of workers’ rights is at a seven year high, warning that the fallout of Covid-19 could bring further setbacks. Job shortages may force workers to accept poor working conditions and employers may use the cover of redundancies to fire union members.

Many countries have also amended or suspended labour laws, leaving workers vulnerable to exploitation. For example, certain states in India have suspended laws on working hours, minimum wage and unionisation.