In a significant meeting, Algerian Minister of Labor, Employment, and Social Security, Fa\u00ef\u00e7al Ben Taleb, welcomed Keith Jacobs, Secretary-General of the International Trade Union Network for Africa, during Jacobs\u2019 official visit to Algeria. The meeting was attended by Omar Taghout, Secretary-General of the General Union of Algerian Workers (UGTA), which had extended the invitation for this collaborative exchange.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to a ministry statement, discussions between the Algerian and African union leaders focused on Algeria\u2019s experience in promoting social dialogue and ensuring the right to union representation\u2014a priority upheld by Algeria\u2019s constitution to protect workers’ rights and ensure decent working conditions. Minister Ben Taleb highlighted the series of advancements achieved for the Algerian workforce, emphasizing the state\u2019s commitment to continuously improving citizens’ purchasing power. He noted that wages, pensions, and retirement grants have seen four consecutive increases over the last five years, reflecting Algeria\u2019s dedication to social welfare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Minister Ben Taleb also underscored the essential role of Algeria\u2019s social security system, describing it as a pillar of national social development. This system provides comprehensive coverage against professional risks for workers and their families and includes unemployment benefits introduced by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, particularly for Algerian youth, in alignment with the state\u2019s social values and objectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The government, he added, aims to expand social coverage to include a greater number of Algerian citizens, reinforcing the values of social justice that have long been integral to the country\u2019s foundations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keith Jacobs, for his part, commended Algeria\u2019s progressive approach to union rights, social dialogue, and inclusive social coverage. He expressed that Algeria\u2019s inclusion in the International Trade Union Network for Africa is a valuable addition to the organization, noting his eagerness to deepen cooperation with the UGTA and other Algerian trade unions to further strengthen ties and share best practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n