Published: September 12, 2025
MONROVIA — The Ministry of Labor has restated its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Liberian workers, while urging both employers and employees to honor obligations under collective bargaining agreements.
Assistant Labor Minister Emmanuel Barnes made the remarks in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, at the signing of the sixth Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between ArcelorMittal Liberia and the United Workers Union. Representing Labor Minister Cllr. Cooper Kruah, Barnes said the government remains dedicated to fostering a fair labor environment across the country.
Barnes pressed ArcelorMittal to fully implement the new CBA and reduce its reliance on subcontractors. He argued that converting more contract workers into full-time employees would allow them to benefit from the agreement’s protections.
At the same time, he cautioned employees against making claims outside the scope of the CBA, calling such actions “unprofessional and counterproductive.”
“We believe both parties will adhere to the CBA for the betterment of the sector and the country,” Barnes said.
The assistant minister stressed that while safeguarding workers is crucial, the government must also protect the investments of companies operating in Liberia. He described CBAs as vital instruments for promoting best practices and ensuring compliance in the labor sector, though he acknowledged persistent challenges in enforcement.
Despite these hurdles, Barnes said the ministry is taking steps to improve working conditions and end bad labor practices that have plagued the sector. He assured the public that the government is committed not only to defending workers’ rights but also to creating more job opportunities in a country grappling with high unemployment.
Discussion about this post