The Philippines landed on top of the World Risk Index (WRI) in 2022, making it the country with the highest disaster risk among 193 countries. Vulnerable sectors including workers bear the brunt of the impacts of disasters.
In the face of the pressing climate crisis affecting the Philippines, the Center for Trade Union and Human Rights (CTUHR) is leading the charge to empower workers and safeguard their rights. Through dynamic educational initiatives and grassroots mobilisation efforts, CTUHR is sparking a movement for climate justice that’s resonating across communities.
CTUHR’s commitment to climate justice is evident in its array of initiatives aimed at educating and mobilising workers. Notable among these efforts is the Forum of Climate Justice and Just Transition, which brought together 150 participants from communities heavily affected by mining and power plants. This landmark event culminated in the formation of an alliance for climate justice, uniting voices in the fight against environmental injustice.
Additionally, CTUHR organised a Workers’ Consultation on Climate Justice and Just Transition, convening 38 leaders across various sectors to discuss the detrimental effects of the climate crisis on workers’ lives and livelihoods. Through collaboration with the Center for Environmental Concerns (CEC), workers engaged in critical dialogue and strategising to address environmental challenges.
Workers from different communities in Pinamungahan, Toledo, and Cebu participated in the Forum on Climate Justice and Just Transition.
Mobilising Workers for Action
CTUHR actively mobilized workers in global climate action events, including the Global Day of Action manifestation and Earth Day. Workers participated in demonstrations, advocating for climate justice and just transition. Notably, CTUHR organized a Human Chain in Novaliches City, drawing 100 participants from diverse sectors to highlight the urgency of climate action.
Training for Climate Justice
Recognising the importance of equipping workers with knowledge and skills, CTUHR conducted facilitator’s training to empower leaders and volunteers to champion climate justice educational initiatives. Moreover, in partnership with WomenWISE3 and the support of a Local Government Unit, CTUHR provided Disaster and Risk Assessment Orientation to workers in Valenzuela City, enhancing their resilience in the face of climate-related challenges.
Cooperation and Partnership
This year, CTUHR saw the value of collaborating with more organisations and networks to advance its agenda for climate justice. Notably, CTUHR joined forces with CEC and was able to raise urgent worker concerns in meetings with the UN Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in the Context of Climate Change.
In its strong commitment to climate justice, CTUHR is fostering solidarity, advocacy, and empowerment among workers. By leveraging education, mobilisation, and cooperation, CTUHR is driving change in the pursuit of a sustainable and just future.
Union Aid Abroad – APHEDA is currently supporting the Center for Trade Union and Human Rights (CTUHR)’s the “Pushing forward the Workers for Climate Justice” project which also receives support from the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) .
