Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87) - Equatorial Guinea (RATIFICATION: 2001)

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The representative of the Secretary-General informed the Committee that the delegation of Equatorial Guinea was not accredited to the Conference.

The Chairperson of the Committee, referring to the working methods of the Committee, stated that the refusal of a government to participate in the work of the Committee represented a considerable obstacle to the achievement of the main objectives of the International Labour Organization. In the case of governments which were not present at the Conference, the Committee did not examine the substance of the case, but would bring out in its report the importance of the issues raised. A particular emphasis would be put on steps to be taken to resume the dialogue.

The Worker members recalled that Equatorial Guinea was not accredited to the present session of the Conference. Equatorial Guinea had been included in the list of individual cases because of two footnotes in the report of the Committee of Experts under Conventions Nos 87 and 98. The Government had justified the lack of legislation giving effect to the principles contained in these Conventions due to the absence of a trade union tradition in the country. An immediate consequence of this lacuna was the impossibility to bargain collectively. The lack of dialogue between the Committee of Experts and the Government on this point had already been noted under other Conventions, in particular those relating to seafarers. The Government also found it difficult to explain the deficiencies in the application of numerous other Conventions. The negative attitude of the Government had been the subject of criticisms from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) for several years, as trade unionism had been driven underground, whereas several organizations hoped for their official recognition, such as the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers' Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers' Organization (OTC). This situation showed the will of the workers to engage in a process of social dialogue that would finally allow for the conclusion of collective agreements. The Worker members recalled the possibility for governments encountering difficulties in applying ratified Conventions to benefit from ILO technical assistance. Concerning collective bargaining, its establishment required specific capacity-building for dialogue. The Worker members expressed the wish that the ILO propose to the Government of Equatorial Guinea assistance in the field of freedom of association.

The Employer members drew attention to the reference to Equatorial Guinea in the general observations contained in the 2008 report of the Committee of Experts, which indicated that contacts had been maintained between the Government and the Office through technical assistance. It was hoped that such contacts would bear fruit so that this Committee would be able to discuss the case at its future session.

The Worker member of Spain, speaking on behalf of the General Union of Workers (UGT) and the Trade Union Confederation of Workers' Commissions (CC.OO.), regretted the absence of dialogue with the Government of Equatorial Guinea. She also highlighted that the evident disinterest of the Government of Equatorial Guinea to participate in this annual Conference could be used as a means to avoid the supervision and criticism of this Committee. In view of the absence of fundamental rights in Equatorial Guinea, the Spanish trade unions demon- strated their solidarity and concern at the deplorable conditions existing in the country.

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Previous comment

The Committee has been commenting for a number of years on the need for the Government to bring labour legislation into conformity with the Convention and, in its 2020 observation, it urged the Government to provide a full reply in that respect. In particular, the Committee requested the Government to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992 on trade unions and collective labour relations so that enterprise trade unions may be established; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992 so as to reduce the minimum number of workers required for an occupational association to obtain legal personality; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and the manner in which this right is exercised; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential and the minimum services to be ensured, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) provide information on whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike, in accordance with section 58 of the Fundamental Act. The Committee notes the Government’s information that the Ministry of Labour, Employment Promotion and Social Protection has set up a Legislative Committee and a General Directorate for Regulations with a view to updating social labour legislation, and that work is currently being carried out to amend the Act on the general labour regulations, the Act on inspections and Act No. 12/1992 on trade unions and collective labour relations, based on the comments and observations of the ILO supervisory bodies; and that the Government hopes that shortly the texts will be discussed with the social partners and shared with the ILO. While welcoming the Government’s information, the Committee urges the Government to, as soon as possible and in consultation with the social partners, and the technical assistance of the Office, bring the legislation into conformity with the Convention.

Furthermore, the Committee noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) in 2011 on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee notes the Government’s indication that it regrets that those organizations have not been able to register due to administrative problems and hopes that, even though their applications may have expired under the current law, they can initiate new processes in conformity with the current legislation. Taking due note of this information and regretting to note that time has lapsed without the organizations being able to be registered, the Committee urges the Government to provide information relating to these organizations, indicating whether it has been possible to proceed with their registration.

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The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments. The Committee informs the Government that, if it has not supplied replies to the points raised by 1 September 2023, then it may proceed with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the information at its disposal at its next session.

Repetition

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report, due since 2007, has not been received. In light of its urgent appeal launched to the Government in 2020, the Committee proceeds with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of whatever information is at its disposal. The Committee recalls that it has been raising issues concerning the observance of the Convention in an observation. It has formulated longstanding recommendations to bring the Labour legislation into conformity with the Convention concerning limitations that unduly restrict the right of workers to organize and to formulate their programmes, including the right to establish enterprise trade unions, the right to strike and the determination of essential services, as well as the refusal to recognize in practice a number of workers’ organizations by rejecting their registration requests.Not having at its disposal any indication of progress on these pending matters, despite the technical assistance that the Office provided to the country on several occasions, the Committee refers to its previous observation adopted in 2020 and urges the Government to provide a full reply thereto.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report, due since 2007, has not been received. In light of its urgent appeal launched to the Government in 2020, the Committee proceeds with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of whatever information is at its disposal. The Committee recalls that it has been raising issues concerning the observance of the Convention in an observation. It has formulated longstanding recommendations to bring the Labour legislation into conformity with the Convention concerning limitations that unduly restrict the right of workers to organize and to formulate their programmes, including the right to establish enterprise trade unions, the right to strike and the determination of essential services, as well as the refusal to recognize in practice a number of workers’ organizations by rejecting their registration requests. Not having at its disposal any indication of progress on these pending matters, despite the technical assistance that the Office provided to the country on several occasions, the Committee refers to its previous observation adopted in 2020 and urges the Government to provide a full reply thereto.

[The Government is asked to reply in full to the present comments in 2022.]

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The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments. The Committee informs the Government that, if it has not supplied replies to the points raised by 1 September 2021, then it may proceed with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the information at its disposal at its next session.

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments. The Committee informs the Government that, if it has not supplied replies to the points raised by 1 September 2020, then it may proceed with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the information at its disposal at its next session.

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments initially made in 2012.

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments made in 2012. The Committee also notes that the Government has been requested to provide information to the Committee on the Application of Standards at the 106th Session of the International Labour Conference for failure to supply reports and information on the application of ratified Conventions.

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes the observations of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) received on 1 September 2016 which are of a general nature.

The Committee notes with deep concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes the observations of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) received on 1 September 2015.

The Committee also notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It expresses concern in this respect. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee takes note of the observations provided by the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) in a communication received on 1 September 2014. In addition, it notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous comments.

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Furthermore, the Committee had noted the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee observes that, in its communication of 2013, the ITUC reiterates its previous comments.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

Finally, the Committee notes the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), dated 4 August 2011, on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

The Committee observes that, in its communication dated 31 July 2012, the ITUC reiterates its previous comments.

The Committee further notes the comments made by the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) on the right to strike in a communication dated 29 August 2012, which are dealt with in the General Report of the Committee.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. The Committee is therefore bound to reiterate its previous observation, which read as follows:

Repetition

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Finally, the Committee notes the comments of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), dated 4 August 2011, on the application of the Convention and the persistent refusal to register various trade unions, namely the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls once again that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to the requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see the 1994 General Survey on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). Under these conditions, the Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and to provide information in this respect in its next report.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received.

The Committee notes the comments from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) dated 24 August 2010, which refer to the application of the Convention and also to the administrative authority’s persistent refusal to register the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to a requirement for previous authorization, which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see General Survey of 1994 on freedom of association and collective bargaining, para. 74). The Committee therefore urges the Government once again to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee again recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to: (i) amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions; (ii) amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees – so as to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level; (iii) confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law; (iv) provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and (v) state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send information in its next report on any measures taken or contemplated in this respect. The Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to resume a constructive dialogue with the ILO.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received.

The Committee notes the comments from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) dated 26 August 2009, which refer to the application of the Convention and also to the administrative authority’s persistent refusal to register the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). According to the ITUC, the administrative authority does not recognize trade unions which are classified as independent and obstructs the registration process. The Committee recalls that the discretionary power of the competent authority to grant or reject a registration request is tantamount to a requirement for previous authorization which is not compatible with Article 2 of the Convention (see General Survey of 1994 on freedom of association and collective bargaining, paragraph 74). The Committee therefore urges the Government once again to register without delay those trade unions which have fulfilled the legal requirements and provide information in this respect in its next report.

The Committee recalls that it has been asking the Government for a number of years to:

–      amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions;

–      amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees in order to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level;

–      confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law;

–      provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and

–      state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee again urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and to send the information requested. The Committee reminds the Government that it may seek technical assistance from the Office in this respect.

Finally, observing that the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards noted with regret at its 2008 meeting that it had been unable to examine the case of the application of the Convention by Equatorial Guinea due to the fact that the Government was not represented at the Conference, the Committee expresses the strong hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to renew constructive dialogue with the ILO.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. The Committee also notes that the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards regretted that it was unable to examine the case of the application of the Convention by Equatorial Guinea owing to the fact that the Government was not represented at the Conference.

The Committee also notes the comments from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) dated 29 August 2008, which refer once again to the legislative issues which are under examination and the administrative authority’s refusal to register a number of trade unions, including the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee once again urges the Government to register without delay the trade union organizations, whose registration was refused and inform it of the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are able to establish organizations of their choosing.

The Committee recalls that for a number of years it has been requesting the Government to:

–      amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that employees’ organizations may be occupational or sectoral – so that workers may, if they so desire, establish enterprise trade unions;

–      amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have a minimum of 50 employees in order to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level;

–      confirm that, as a result of a revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised under the conditions laid down by law;

–      provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined, as provided for in section 37 of Act No. 12/1992; and

–      state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike (section 58 of the Fundamental Act).

The Committee urges the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention. The Committee expresses the hope that the Government will send a detailed report next year for examination by the Committee in the context of the regular reporting cycle and that it will contain full information on the issues raised.

The Committee expresses the firm hope that the Government will take all possible steps without delay to renew the constructive dialogue with the ILO. Furthermore, taking into account the gravity of the situation, it urges the Government to seek technical assistance from the Office to ensure the full application of the Convention.

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The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It notes the comments from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) dated 28 August 2007 concerning legislative issues which are under examination and denouncing once again the administrative authority’s refusal to register a number of trade unions, including the Trade Union of Workers of Equatorial Guinea (UST), the Independent Services Union (SIS), the Teachers’ Trade Union Association (ASD) and the Agricultural Workers’ Organization (OTC). The Committee recalls that it noted that, owing to the lack of a trade union tradition, there were still no workers’ unions operating in the country. The Committee expresses its concern at the circumstances described above and reminds the Government that, under the provisions of Article 2 of the Convention, all workers without distinction shall have the right to establish trade union organizations of their own choosing. The Committee requests the Government to register without delay the trade union organizations the registration of which was refused and keep it informed of the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are able to establish organizations of their own choosing.

With reference to its previous comments, the Committee recalls that it asked the Government to:

–      amend section 5 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that sectoral employees’ organizations shall bring together employees of two or more enterprises engaged in similar activities, so as to allow the establishment of enterprise trade unions;

–      amend section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have 50 employees as a minimum, in order to reduce the number of workers required to a reasonable level;

–      confirm that, as a result of the revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized in public utilities and is exercised in the conditions laid down by law;

–      provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined;

–      state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike.

The Committee requests the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the legislation in order to bring it into full conformity with the provisions of the Convention and reply to the requests for information. The Committee requests the Government to keep it informed of all measures taken in this respect. Finally, the Committee points out to the Government that it may seek technical assistance from the Office.

[The Government is asked to supply full particulars to the Conference at its 97th Session and to reply in detail to the present comments in 2008.]

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The Committee notes the comments of 10 August 2006 by the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions (ICFTU), referring among other things to the administrative authority’s refusal to register a number of trade unions. The Committee also notes a case examined by the Committee on Freedom of Association, which likewise concerns the administrative authority’s refusal to register two trade union organizations (see 340th Report of the Committee on Freedom of Association, Case No. 2431). The Committee expresses its concern at the ICFTU’s allegations and requests the Government to send its comments on them.

In its last observation, the Committee noted that, due to the lack of a trade union tradition, there were still no workers’ unions operating in the country. The Committee again asks the Government, in the context of the regular reporting cycle, to send information on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that workers are able to establish the organizations they deem appropriate.

The Committee points out to the Government that it may seek technical assistance from the Office in solving these serious problems.

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The Committee notes the Government’s report.

Article 2 of the Convention. Freedom to establish workers’ organizations. In its previous direct request, the Committee observed that section 5 of Act No. 12/1992 provides that sectoral employees’ organizations shall bring together employees of two or more enterprises engaged in similar activities. The Committee takes note of the Government’s statement that, in addition to shared interests, workers in the same enterprise or sector of activity have greater affinity and that there is no intent to restrict workers’ right to organize. The Committee is of the view that workers who so wish should be able to form unions in the enterprise or at the level they deem fit. The Committee requests the Government to take steps to amend the legislative provision in question, so as to allow the establishment of enterprise trade unions, and to provide information on this matter in its next report.

The Committee referred previously to section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides that for an occupational association to obtain legal personality it must, inter alia, have 50 employees as a minimum. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that given the size of enterprises and the realities of the labour market, the weight of a trade union will depend on the size of its membership, but that if it proves unavoidable, the amendment of this provision will be put to Parliament. In the Committee’s view, the minimum number required is too high and so may place too close a restriction on the right of workers to establish organizations of their choosing. The Committee therefore requests the Government to take the necessary steps to amend the abovementioned provision and reduce the number of workers required for an occupational association to obtain legal personality. It requests the Government to inform it of any measures adopted in this respect in its next report.

Articles 3 and 7. Right to strike. The Committee commented previously on section 58 of the Fundamental Act which prohibits strikes in public utilities. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that, thanks to the revision of the Fundamental Act in 1995 (Act No. 1 of 1995), the right to strike is recognized and is exercised in the conditions laid down by law. The Committee requests the Government expressly to confirm that as a result of the above revision, the right to strike is ensured in public utilities.

In its previous direct request, the Committee also asks the Government to provide information on the services deemed to be essential, and on how the minimum services to be ensured are determined. The Committee observes that the Government has not replied to these comments, and asks it to send the information requested in its next report.

Lastly, the Committee asked the Government for information on the exercise of the right to strike in a public service. It observes that the Government has sent no information on this matter. It accordingly requests the Government to state whether public servants who do not exercise authority in the name of the State enjoy the right to strike.

Article 4. Dissolution of workers’ organizations. In its previous direct request, the Committee noted that under section 22 of Act No. 12/1992, an association of workers may be dissolved by a decision of the Council of Ministers based on a proposal initiated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Promotion, and that such a decision means that the administrative procedures have been exhausted. It requested the Government to state whether such decisions may be appealed in the courts of law and whether the lodging of such appeals suspends execution of the decision until the judicial authority has ruled. The Committee notes the information that appeal lies to the judicial authority against administrative decisions pursuant to the Act governing the judicial system of the state central administration and the Legislative Decree regulating administrative procedure, and that execution of such decisions may be stayed.

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The Committee takes note of the Government’s report.

In its previous comments the Committee noted that, according to the Government, due to the lack of a trade union tradition, there were still no workers’ unions operating in the country, and requested the Government to provide information on the measures adopted or envisaged to create favourable conditions for the establishment of workers’ organizations. The Committee notes that the Government indicates that four requests for the registration of trade unions have been received, one of which produced positive results and gave rise to the establishment of the Trade Union of Smallholders (OSPA). The other three did not fulfil the legal requirements, a fact which has been notified to those concerned. The Committee expresses its concern at this situation and once again asks the Government to provide information in its next report on the measures adopted or contemplated so as to guarantee that the workers may establish the organizations that they consider appropriate.

The Committee is also addressing a request on other matters directly to the Government.

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The Committee notes the Government’s report and its general indication that, due to the lack of a trade union tradition, there are still no workers’ unions operating in the country. In this respect, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the measures adopted or envisaged to create favourable conditions for the establishment of workers’ organizations.

Article 2 of the Convention. Freedom to establish workers’ organizations. The Committee notes that section 5 of Act No. 12/1992 provides that sectoral employees’ organizations shall bring together employees of two or more enterprises engaged in similar activities and it considers that this provision is contrary to Article 2 of the Convention, under which workers must be able to establish organizations of their own choosing. The Committee also considers that section 10 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides, among other requirements, that, for an occupational association to obtain legal personality, it must have a minimum number of 50 employees, may affect the right of workers to decide freely on the composition of their organizations. In these circumstances, the Committee requests the Government to adopt the necessary measures to amend these provisions so as to allow the establishment of enterprise trade unions and reduce to a reasonable level the minimum number of workers required for the establishment of a trade union. The Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on any measure adopted in this respect.

Articles 3 and 7 of the Convention. Right to strike. The Committee notes with interest that section 37 of Act No. 12/1992 reproduces the definition of essential services formulated by the Committee and provides for the maintenance of minimum services in such services. In this respect, the Committee requests the Government to provide information on the manner in which services considered to be essential are determined in practice and how the minimum services to be guaranteed are determined. Furthermore, noting that section 58 of the Fundamental Act prohibits strikes in services of public utility, the Committee requests the Government to provide clarifications on the manner in which this provision of the Fundamental Act is reconciled in practice with section 37 of Act No. 12/1992, which provides for the establishment of minimum services in essential services. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the exercise of the right to strike in the public service and recalls that the prohibition of strikes in this sector should be limited to public servants exercising authority in the name of the State.

Article 4. Dissolution of workers’ organizations. The Committee notes that, under the terms of section 22 of Act No. 12/1992, an association of workers may be dissolved by decision of the Council of Ministers, based on a proposal initiated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Promotion, and that such a decision means that the administrative procedures have been exhausted. The Committee requests the Government to confirm in its next report whether such a decision can be appealed to the courts and to indicate whether the lodging of an appeal to the courts has a suspensive effect, that is, whether it suspends the effect of the decision for the dissolution of the organization until the judicial authority has ruled on the case.