Six Trade Unions Oppose Draft Civil Service Act, Citing Rights Violations

Kathmandu. Six trade unions active in the civil service sector have expressed serious objection to the proposed curtailment of trade union rights in the draft Federal Civil Service Act.

They have demanded that the government immediately scrap the proposal, deeming it unconstitutional, anti-labor rights, and contrary to democratic values and principles.

In a joint press release issued on Sunday, the trade unions highlighted their significant role in protecting the professional interests of employees, ensuring effective service delivery, and promoting good governance. They also recalled their consistent and responsible role in upholding democracy, republic, peace, and the constitution.

While welcoming the Federal Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration's move to publicly release the draft bill related to the Federal Civil Service Act for suggestions on Baishakh 11, the unions expressed dissatisfaction with certain provisions. Specifically, they strongly opposed the attempt to curtail the rights of employees to organize and engage in collective bargaining.

The press release emphasized the clear provisions for the right to form associations and labor rights guaranteed by Articles 17 and 34 of the Constitution of Nepal 2072, stating that any attempt to undermine these rights would be unacceptable. It also referenced various conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO) that ensure trade union rights in public services.

The main demands of the unions are as follows:

• The provision in the Federal Civil Service Bill that curtails trade union rights should be immediately scrapped.
• Full trade union rights should be ensured, allowing all professionals to organize and become members of their chosen organization, in accordance with the Constitution of Nepal and the conventions to which Nepal is a signatory and has ratified as a party to the International Labour Organization.
• The rights of employees working in public services concerning their welfare, participation, and collective bargaining should be legally strengthened.
• No legal provision should be advanced without adequate consultation and agreement with the concerned trade unions.

The trade unions stated that they have been presenting their demands to the government, the Federal Parliament, and relevant committees since the past. They mentioned submitting a formal letter of demands to the ministry on Baishakh 4 and urged for these demands to be included in the bill.

The unions warned that if the government remains indifferent to their demands, they will be compelled to launch phased protests, and clarified that the concerned parties would be responsible for any ensuing situation.

Finally, they urged the government to reconsider its decision, respecting democratic values, the rule of law, and labor rights.