28th plenary meeting

7 May 1982

Report of the Ad Hoc Working Group of Experts of the Commissio n on Human Rights on allegations of infringements of trade union rights in the Republic of South Africa

The Economic and Social Council,

Recalling its resolution 1981/41 of 8 May 1981,

Recalling its decision 1981/155 of 8 May 1981, by which it transmitted to the Ad Hoc Working Group of Experts of the Commission on Human Rights, for consideration, the allegations regarding infringements of trade union rights in South Africa submitted by the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions,

Having examined the reports of the Ad Hoc Working Group of Experts,

Noting that the Government of South Africa continues to violate, by its legislation, international standards concerning trade union rights,

Noting further with grave concern that police and State interference in industrial disputes and repression against the independent black trade union movement has persisted,

1. Takes note of the report of the Ad Hoc Working Group of Experts prepared in accordance with Council resolution 1981/41;

2. Takes note with appreciation of the report of the Ad Hoc Working Group of Experts prepared in accordance with Council decision 1981/155, and of the conclusions contained therein;

3. Demands the immediate recognition of the unimpeded exercise of freedom of association and trade union rights by the entire population of South Africa, without discrimination of any kind;

4. Calls once again for the immediate release of all the imprisoned trade unionists and the lifting of all banning orders imposed on persons engaged in trade union activities;

5. Demands the lifting of the ban on fund-raising drives by the Federation of South African Trade Unions;

6. Reiterates its demand for the cessation of all government and police interference in labour disputes;

7. Requests the Ad Hoc Working Group of Experts to continue to study the situation and to report thereon to the Commission on Human Rights and the Council as appropriate;

8. Also requests the Ad Hoc Working Group of Experts, in the discharge of its mandate, to consult with the International Labour Organisation and the Special Committee against Apartheid, as well as with international and African trade union confederations;

9. Decides to consider at its first regular session of 1983 the question of allegations of infringements of trade union rights in South Africa as a subitem under the item entitled "Human rights questions".