In a resounding call for humanitarian intervention, South Africa’s Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, has reiterated the nation’s urgent plea for a ceasefire and the provision of essential aid in Gaza. Addressing the 350th Session of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Nxesi emphasized the critical need for swift international action to alleviate the suffering endured by the Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza Strip.
Expressing deep concern over the dire situation, Minister Nxesi underscored the significant impact of the ongoing Israeli military operations on the economy and welfare of the people in Gaza. He highlighted the alarming statistics presented in the ILO Director-General’s report, revealing the devastating loss of over two-thirds of jobs in Gaza, amounting to 192,000 vanished employment opportunities.
“The Republic of South Africa stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people, who continue to endure relentless hardships at the hands of the Israeli military,” Minister Nxesi stated, emphasizing the trampling of fundamental human rights, including labor rights, and the threatening of the very existence of Palestinians.
Amidst the urgent need for basic services and humanitarian assistance to address famine, starvation, and dire living conditions in Gaza, Minister Nxesi called upon the international community to act decisively. He urged ILO Member States to reconsider any decisions to defund humanitarian work by UN agencies in Gaza, stressing the imperative of upholding humanitarian principles.
Expressing condemnation of Israel’s excessive use of force in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Minister Nxesi raised concerns regarding potential violations of international labor conventions. He denounced Israel’s actions for their detrimental effects on livelihoods, the economy, workers, and businesses in Gaza, citing alarming unemployment rates and the displacement of Palestinian workers.
Furthermore, Minister Nxesi called for a re-evaluation of bilateral labor agreements between Israel and certain governments. He emphasized the need for decisive action to hold Israel accountable for violations of labor conventions and international law, urging the initiation of measures under Article 26 of the ILO Constitution and other relevant human rights treaties.
Highlighting the critical role of tripartism in advocating for social justice, Minister Nxesi appealed to the Workers’ Group and Employers’ Group to address the plight of Palestinian workers and businesses. He stressed the importance of upholding decent work principles and called on Israel to implement provisional measures ordered by the principal legal organ of the United Nations.
In reminding the international community of recent interim measures issued by the International Court of Justice, directing Israel to prevent acts of genocide and ensure prompt humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza, Minister Nxesi expressed dismay at Israel’s disregard for the ruling. He urged the international community to condemn Israel’s flagrant disregard for international law and to lend its voice to the call for justice and humanitarian relief in Gaza.
South Africa’s unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of the Palestinian people resonates strongly in Minister Nxesi’s impassioned plea for immediate action. As the international community grapples with the ongoing crisis in Gaza, South Africa stands at the forefront, urging solidarity and collective action to alleviate the suffering and uphold the dignity of all affected individuals in the region.
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