Syndicalism in Senegal the ‘Dakar call’ for independent union action

On July 23, 2026, a historic meeting unfolded at the headquarters of the National Council of Senegalese Trade Unions in the Médina district of Dakar. Representatives from various Senegalese trade unions and social forces gathered to unveil the Dakar Call, a bold initiative aimed at reshaping the national labor movement.

With employment instability worsening and social dialogue deteriorating, these organizations are pushing for a fundamental overhaul of Senegal’s union landscape. The foundational text of the Dakar Call underscores a critical principle: protecting union action from any political, administrative, or partisan interference. It calls for a united front spanning workers from the public sector to the informal economy, grounded in core values of ethics, competence, and grassroots solidarity.

The initiative sends a clear message to both the government and employers, demanding transparent social dialogue and strict adherence to signed agreements. The Dakar Call argues that lasting social peace cannot be enforced through coercion but must be built on mutual trust and accountability. Additionally, it champions the rise of a new generation of union leaders, urging young people, women, and civic organizations to play an active role in this transformative effort.