Igor Zubku
Within the 113th session of the International Labor Conference, Igor Zubcu, President of the National Confederation of Trade Unions of Moldova (NCTM), stressed that platform workers face more and more serious challenges as digitalization accelerates in all spheres of life.
“I believe that decent work for platform workers is not only about having an individual labor contract and minimum wage. It is respect for workers’ rights and interests, a safe working environment, real opportunities for professional training and growth, as well as access to social protection – elements that, unfortunately, for many platform workers are still not ensured,” Igor Zubku said.
Biological risks: a threat that is ignored
In addition, the Chairman of the NCPM touched upon the problem of biological risks at workplaces. Despite the fact that they represent a serious health hazard, this threat is often ignored. The Republic of Moldova ratified the ILO Convention on Occupational Health Services in 2021, but the document is still not applied in practice.
“It is crucial to develop occupational medicine services capable of detecting biological threats and preventing occupational diseases. I firmly believe that prevention of these risks is not an expense, but an investment in a healthy and productive workforce,” Igor Zubcu emphasized.
In this regard, Moldovan trade unions insist on the speedy implementation of the Convention’s provisions. “Health and safety in the workplace is not a privilege, but a fundamental right,” the trade union leader concluded.
Interference in trade union activities
In addition to the above concerns, the NCPM formally addressed the International Labor Organization regarding a serious case of interference in trade union activities recorded in the fall of 2024. The trade unions expressed concern about the lack of prompt response from the state authorities and demanded to amend the national legislation to introduce clear sanctions for any undue interference in the work of trade union organizations.
