Mistreatment of Congolese workers in expatriate establishments
The Association of Workers of Congo (ATCO) is sounding the alarm about the mistreatment suffered by Congolese workers operating in establishments run by Indo-Pakistani, Chinese, Lebanese and West African expatriates in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). ). According to the ATCO, these workers face precarious working conditions, insufficient wages and violations of their rights.
Gathered in Kinshasa, ATCO members strengthened their legal knowledge in order to defend their rights in the labor sector in the DRC. They also plan to organize demonstrations to call on the government to take action against bad practices and abuses suffered by Congolese workers.
One of the main problems denounced by the ATCO is the non-respect of the minimum guaranteed interprofessional wage (SMIG) by expatriates. Most of them continue to pay their Congolese employees at the outdated exchange rate of 1,400 FC for 1 US dollar, while the current rate is 2,500 FC. This practice deprives Congolese workers of a decent wage, making it difficult for them to survive on a daily basis.
In addition to wage issues, Congolese workers also denounce long working hours, non-respect of leave, as well as human rights violations. Some workers even claim that they do not benefit from medical assistance in the event of illness.
Faced with this alarming situation, ATCO calls on the Congolese government to show political will to put an end to the mistreatment of Congolese workers. They demand respect for the legal framework governing the labor sector, as well as concrete measures to guarantee the rights and well-being of Congolese workers.
Desperation reigns among Congolese workers who had hoped for change with the coming to power of President Felix Tshisekedi. Unfortunately, five years after the departure of the previous regime, the working conditions of Congolese workers in expatriate establishments have barely changed. Previous protests and demands have had no significant effect, leaving workers in a precarious situation.
It is essential that the Congolese government take concrete action to end this abuse and ensure decent working conditions for Congolese workers. It is also important to strengthen the enforcement of the legal framework and ensure that workers’ rights are respected and protected.
It is time to act to put an end to this unacceptable and unjust situation. Respect for the rights of Congolese workers must be a priority to ensure equitable and inclusive economic development in the DRC. Expats operating businesses in the DRC should also be aware of their social responsibility and commit to respecting the rights and dignity of Congolese workers