BWI General Secretary Ambet Yuson's mission to Tunisia from 17 to 19 February 2025 addressed the severe challenges facing construction and wood sector workers, including job insecurity, hazardous conditions, and union restrictions. The mission began with a productive meeting at the International Labour Organization (ILO), highlighting a successful example of social dialogue between the Fédération Générale du Bâtiment et du Bois (FGBB) and the Fédération Générale des Entrepreneurs de Construction, affiliated with UTICA (the employers’ federation). This dialogue has led to improved workplace safety and collective bargaining agreements. The FGBB also underscored its partnerships with the ILO and BWI, emphasising the need for enhanced training and union development to better organise workers.

During the mission, meetings with UGTT Secretary General Noureddine Taboubi shed light on the growing difficulties faced by Tunisian unions, particularly in social dialogue with the government and the large informal sector. Ambet Yuson reaffirmed BWI's support for Tunisian unions, stressing the importance of global solidarity and recognising Taboubi's commitment to workers' rights. On-site visits, including a construction site operated by Afrique Travaux and the CAT-COLACEM cement plant, provided critical insights into worker challenges and best practices. The construction site visit highlighted the need for continuous training and protective equipment, especially in extreme heat, while the cement plant showcased a model of successful social dialogue and sustainable occupational safety and health (OSH) practices.

The mission also focused on improving vocational training and professional integration for young workers, with a visit to the Bouzguenda Training Center. Despite successful training programmes, graduates continue to face employment challenges, underscoring the need for stronger industry-union partnerships. BWI concluded the mission by reaffirming its commitment to Tunisian workers and unions, emphasising the importance of international solidarity and collective mobilisation to counter growing pressures on trade union rights and promote decent work in Tunisia.

"Although more than 60 percent of Tunisia’s construction sector operates in the informal economy, we continue to fight tirelessly to organise all workers and guarantee them safe and decent workplaces," said Noureddine Taboubi.