Winning improvements in working conditions, especially safety and health, was the focus of the 2024 Hotel Housekeepers Global Week of Action (GWA).
While the recovery of the tourism sector continues with UN Tourism’s barometer indicating it may even increase to pre-COVID 19 levels, this is not being reflected in working conditions in the sector. Increased workloads, extended working hours, erratic shifts, increased outsourcing, and pressure to complete assigned tasks remain widespread. The situation puts the safety and health (OSH) of workers at risk.
- The GWA takes place every year with unions mobilizing at workplace and national level around a common theme. It was held this year from December 9-15 with events taking place in numerous countries. Information about the 2024 Global Week of Action, pictures, publications and other materials are available on the dedicated Trello board
- Preparatory material from the Secretariat highlighted that while in 2022 the ILO upgraded safety and health at work to a fundamental right, this was not the reality for hospitality workers
- The GWA events and statements focused on OSH for hotel housekeepers and support for their fight for guaranteed daily housekeeping, pay equity and improved working conditions negotiated through their unions
- The IUF Secretariat organized a global online event on December 9 to present a draft OSH manual for hotel housekeepers. The manual is intended to become a reference document in the sector, reminding employers and governments of their obligations
