Reforms spearheaded by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to support the workforce took center stage Saturday during the Union General of Algerian Workers (UGTA)’s observance of International Labor Day. UGTA Secretary-General Amar Takdjout praised the tangible steps addressing workers’ concerns, noting their direct impact on daily lives.
Right away, Takdjout commended Tebboune’s moves on “salary hikes, boosted retirement pensions, and unemployment benefits,” calling them “landmark social policies that have lifted purchasing power and advanced social equity.” He stressed that these actions reflect “a firm political commitment to revive the state’s social role and meet the needs of diverse professional groups.”
Held with Labor, Employment, and Social Security Minister Abdelhak Saïhi and National Solidarity, Family, and Women’s Affairs Minister Soraya Mouloudji in attendance, the event drew top union officials, federation reps, and workers from various industries.
In his speech, Takdjout also spotlighted “major initiatives in key sectors like energy, mining, and transport,” viewing them as “vital gains for workers and future generations.” He emphasized how these investments “shore up the national economy and open fresh job prospects.”
He further applauded “the president’s message to workers on this day,” seeing it as “a clear sign of respect for labor’s pivotal role in nation-building.”
Takdjout framed these strides historically, recalling “the sacrifices of Algerian workers across the nation’s formative phases.” He noted that “worker solidarity and shared resolve have always underpinned the country’s biggest achievements,” urging efforts to “safeguard this legacy and build on it amid today’s challenges.”
Gains to Strengthen in a Challenging Landscape
Continuing, Takdjout pointed to “the upbeat momentum in state firms,” which he said “bolsters workers’ social conditions and revives the national economy.” He backed the need “to lock in these wins and press ahead with balanced, long-term reforms.”
He stressed “the value of social dialogue among labor groups and employers,” deeming it “crucial for workplace stability and unity.” Takdjout called for “expanding consultation forums and favoring talks to settle disputes.” The union leader also stressed “upholding the republic’s laws,” calling it “essential for harmony among economic and social players.”
On a political note, Takdjout issued a stark warning on safeguarding state bodies, declaring “state institutions are a red line—no one will be allowed to undermine them.” He urged “staying alert to destabilizing efforts,” signaling the union’s drive to protect national stability amid fragile social and economic balances.
Labor Minister Saïhi, for his part, honored Algerian workers, crediting their work with “propelling the country to notable development, progress, and prosperity.” He highlighted “workers’ decisive role in the ongoing growth push,” calling for “sustained commitment and accountability.”
The event featured a solemn tribute: a wreath laid at the commemorative monument at UGTA headquarters, followed by honors for iconic labor leaders like Aïssat Idir and Abdelhak Benhamouda. Through this, UGTA reaffirmed its devotion to the labor movement’s core principles of sacrifice, unity, and national service.
This May 1 celebration gave the union a platform to review social progress, back pro-worker government policies, and rally for ongoing efforts to protect and expand gains in a transforming Algeria.