Meeting global challenges with global organising
Whether an employee, an owner-driver or self employed, international drivers face considerable challenges.
With long periods away from home and a lack of regulated working conditions, they experience the same issues all over the world, including:
- a lack of adequate rest facilities
- no insurance cover
- long border delays
- threats to their cargo or vehicle
- the corruption of law enforcement agencies
- high fuel prices
- poor road conditions
- long working hours
- precarious jobs
- HIV/AIDS
- a lack of social security
- ill-treatment and harassment
Combined, these issues often lead to stress and chronic fatigue.
Because of the international aspect of their work, drivers are difficult to organise. Consequently, they’re missing out on union representation, which would help improve working conditions and defend their rights.
Organising projects to help drivers
The ITF has responded to the issue with a series of education projects, including initiatives in Africa with SASK and FNV. Our aim is to strengthen union organising and bargaining along the main transport corridors in these regions.
Want to know more about our work for international drivers? Email inlandtransport@itf.org.uk