Issue 103 – 26, May 24, 2026
The ICJ has given its opinion on the right to Strike
The International Court of Justice is of the opinion that the question of whether “the right to strike of workers and their organizations is protected under the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87)” is to be answered in the affirmative.
This opinion is very important for workers, union retirees, and their unions because it clarifies whether the right to strike is protected by international rules. The Court, which is like a global judge for legal questions, decided that workers and their organizations do have the right to strike under a key international agreement called Convention No. 87.
Why does this matter? Because the right to strike is a main way for workers to fight for better pay, safer working conditions, and fair treatment. When unions know their right to strike is protected by international law, they can stand up for workers without fear of losing that right. This also helps retirees and workers in the future because it shows that their organizations have a strong legal basis to defend their interests.
For unions, this decision gives them confidence that their right to organize and take collective action, like striking, is backed by international rules. For union retirees, it means that the organizations they supported while working continue to have legal protections to push for workers’ rights even after they leave their jobs.
In simple terms, this opinion helps ensure that workers’ voices are heard and protected worldwide. It shows that the right to strike is not just a local issue but part of international law that all countries should respect. This can lead to fairer workplaces and better conditions for everyone, now and in the future.
This opinion is important for the Canadian government because it sets a clear international standard that workers have the right to strike. When the Court says that the right to strike is protected under international law, it means Canada should respect and follow this rule.
Why should Canada follow this opinion? Because Canada is a member of many international agreements, including Convention No. 87. As a responsible country that wants to be a good global citizen, Canada should honor the Court’s decision and make sure its laws and policies support workers’ rights to strike. Doing so helps protect workers and unions and shows that Canada respects international rules and human rights.
Following this opinion also benefits Canada’s reputation. It shows that the country values fairness, workers’ rights, and social justice. It can prevent conflicts between workers and employers and promote better working conditions across the country. Plus, respecting this opinion can help Canada stay aligned with international standards, which can be important in trade relationships and international partnerships. Lily Chang, Secretary Treasurer of the Canadian Labour Congress, said, “Workers cannot have real freedom to organize and bargain unless they have the right to strike. This ruling makes that very clear.”
The Canadian government should follow this Court’s opinion because it reinforces workers’ rights, improves Canada’s global reputation, and helps create fairer workplaces for everyone.
Read more - Advisory Opinion of 21 May 2026
Concerns Over Labour Law
The Canadian government is considering an update of federal labour laws, suggesting they should fit in today’s world. But workers and unions are worried that some of these changes could weaken their rights to strike, bargain, and protect themselves. Fair laws help keep workplaces safe, fair, and strong for everyone.
As Canada is planning a big push to build new infrastructure and increase exports to other countries. While this is good for our economy, unions are worried about what changes might happen to the laws that protect workers’ rights.
The government is asking unions, employers, and other groups for their opinions on how to update the Canada Labour Code. This code is a set of rules that protect more than one million Canadian workers in industries like transportation, airlines, and banks.
Some unions, say the government is considering many changes that could make it harder for workers to strike or protest. For example, they might limit the right to go on strike or change how quickly workers can organize or bargain for better pay and conditions.
Unions are especially worried because the laws might expand what is called “essential services.” This could mean more workers are labeled as essential, which could take away their right to strike. Strikes are an important way to fight for fair wages, safe workplaces, and good benefits.
The government might change how long workers and employers must negotiate or give notice before striking. This could rush workers into agreements that aren’t fair or don’t protect their rights.
The government might get more power to step into disputes and force workers back to work. While this might sound good, unions say it could violate workers’ Charter rights to strike.
New ways to settle disagreements, like special mediators or quicker grievance processes, might sound helpful. But unions worry these changes could limit workers’ voice or make it easier for employers to avoid bargaining.
Workers and unions have fought for many rights over the years, like weekends, parental leave, and safe workplaces. These rights weren’t given by employers, they were won through protests, strikes, and standing up for fair treatment.
If the laws change to make strikes harder or limit workers’ rights, it could be more difficult for workers to protect themselves in the future.
Protecting workers’ rights is essential for a fair and strong economy where everyone is treated with respect.
Read more - Consultation Document: Building Canada Strong for All – Powered by Canada’s Workers - Canada.ca
Observing Amnesty International Day – May 28th
Have you ever thought about how some people around the world are denied basic rights just because of where they live, their gender, or their beliefs? Human rights are the fundamental freedoms that belong to everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from. Amnesty International Day is a special day to remember these rights and to work toward protecting them for all people.
Amnesty International is a global organization that fights for human rights. Since it was founded in 1961, it has worked to stop unfair treatment, such as torture, unjust imprisonment, and violence. The organization also helps victims of abuse and pushes governments to do better. For example, they helped change laws so that victims of rape in Morocco no longer must marry their abusers. They also work to end the death penalty worldwide.
Celebrating Amnesty International Day is important because it raises awareness about human rights issues. It reminds us that we all have a role in making the world a fairer place. You can celebrate by learning about human rights, attending events, or even signing petitions to support those who are suffering. Every action, big or small, can help make a difference. By doing so, we help create a world where everyone is treated with respect and fairness.
Human rights are essential because they protect our dignity, freedom, and equality. When these rights are taken away, it challenges our very humanity.
Remember, everyone deserves human rights.
Read more - Amnesty International Day | Days Of The Year