By Michael Oche
The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has called on the international community to urgently mobilise humanitarian assistance for Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that have claimed thousands of lives, injured many others, and left widespread destruction across affected communities.
In a statement issued by its General Secretary, Akhator Joel Odigie, the organisation also urged governments, humanitarian organisations and the global trade union movement to support recovery efforts and help rebuild affected communities in ways that protect workers’ rights, create decent jobs and strengthen resilience against future disasters.
ITUC-Africa expressed deep condolences and unwavering solidarity with Venezuelan workers, trade unions and the people of the South American nation, noting that rescue operations were still ongoing while thousands of people remained missing and countless families continued to face immense hardship.
“The African trade union movement grieves with the Venezuelan people during this painful moment. We mourn the lives lost, pay tribute to the courage and selfless service of rescue workers, health personnel, volunteers and ordinary citizens, and stand with workers who have lost loved ones, homes, workplaces and livelihoods,” the statement read.
The organisation observed that natural disasters often have the greatest impact on working people, warning that beyond the immediate loss of lives, such tragedies also threaten employment, social protection, public services and economic security.
It stressed the need for coordinated international action to provide emergency relief while laying the foundation for sustainable reconstruction that safeguards workers’ welfare and promotes decent employment opportunities.
ITUC-Africa also reaffirmed its support for the Venezuelan trade union movement as it continues to assist affected workers and their families while contributing to national recovery efforts.
Expressing confidence in the resilience of the Venezuelan people, the organisation said unity and international solidarity would be critical to overcoming the disaster and rebuilding stronger communities.
“To the families mourning loved ones, to those still awaiting news of relatives, and to every worker affected by this catastrophe, we send our heartfelt sympathies and our enduring solidarity,” the statement added.
