Amman: President of the General Federation of Jordanian Trade Unions Khaled Fanatseh announced the launch of a six-month training program in collaboration with the International Labor Organization (ILO). This initiative aims to enhance the union capacities of over 300 female workers across various unions, thereby improving their competitiveness in the labor market.
According to Jordan News Agency, the announcement was made during the first meeting of the reconstituted Women’s Trade Union Committee, attended by an Iraqi delegation led by Sattar Danbous Barak, President of the General Federation of Trade Unions in Iraq. The Iraqi delegation’s visit to Jordan is part of broader efforts to strengthen Arab labor cooperation, exchange trade union expertise, and coordinate responses to the economic and social challenges faced by workers.
Fanatseh also disclosed plans for a national conference in November to address issues concerning employed women. This event will include participation from the Labor Committees of the Senate and the Lower House of Parliament, as well as civil society organizations, aiming to foster dialogue and strengthen partnerships in support of women’s rights and empowerment.
Chairwoman of the Federation’s Women’s Committee, Dalia Assis, highlighted the restructuring of the committee as a vital step toward empowering women within trade unions and ensuring their representation in decision-making roles. She emphasized the committee’s role in voicing the concerns of employed women and finding solutions for a safe, fair, and equitable work environment.
The meeting also addressed challenges faced by employed women, such as limited awareness of labor rights and the necessity for ongoing training. The unions’ role in offering protection and support was also discussed. Members proposed a ceremony to honor previous committee members and expressed their commitment to advancing the existing strategic plan to tackle future challenges and enhance women’s roles in trade unions.
Participants further stressed the importance of consolidating Arab labor solidarity, unifying efforts to address shared challenges, and supporting the Palestinian cause amidst the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and Israeli actions in the West Bank.