Although the ACV-CSC Asia program is not scheduled to launch until 2027, the process of establishing the partnership began several months ago—specifically in March—during a visit by Jeroen Roskams and Maria Emeninta. Their visit aimed to assist in drafting the 2027–2031 five-year program for two Nepalese trade unions: GEFONT (led by President Binod Shrestha, General Secretary Laxman Sharma, and Foreign Affairs Secretary Smrtee Lama) and NTUC (led by President Yogendra Kumar and General Secretary Ajay Kumar Rai).
Maria noted that full support was provided to facilitate the participation of both unions in the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) held in Geneva last June; ACV-CSC, alongside several other trade unions, coordinated this effort under the auspices of the ITUC and WSM.
As is known, Nepal’s new government—formed in the wake of the “Gen Z revolution” unrest—refuses to recognize existing trade unions, deeming them unrepresentative of the workforce, despite their decades-long history. Consequently, Nepalese trade unions are currently pursuing legal action by filing a complaint with the Supreme Court.
With support from ACV—and coordinated by the ITUC—GEFONT and NTUC representatives attended the International Labour Conference (ILC) as NGO observers rather than as voting trade union delegates.
The ITUC, alongside other concerned trade unions, has also held meetings in Nepal to offer support and provide input regarding the country’s labor situation.
Following those discussions, ACV Asia facilitated a meeting between the GEFONT and NTUC delegations and ACV Belgium President Ann Vermorgen, accompanied by Karin Debroey, Director of ACV’s International Department. Held on the sidelines of the 114th ILC, the meeting focused on current developments in Nepal.
ACV Belgium has pledged its full support for the Nepalese trade unions in their bid to regain official recognition; furthermore, ACV Belgium has committed to facilitating and implementing support programs over the next five years.
