Lesotho Strengthens Negotiation Skills to Promote Harmonious Labour Relations

The Government of Lesotho has emphasized negotiation skills as a key tool for effective social dialogue and peaceful labour relations. This was highlighted during a high-level training workshop organized by the Ministry of Public Service in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO). The workshop focused on equipping public service negotiators and labour representatives with the skills necessary to foster trust, cooperation and mutual understanding among social partners.

In his opening remarks, Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane stressed that strong negotiation capacity contributes to improved public service delivery and sustainable national development. He highlighted that institutionalizing social dialogue within the public service is a government priority. The Prime Minister also noted that preparatory work to strengthen collective bargaining structures is already in progress, aligning Lesotho’s labour practices with ILO Convention No. 98 on the Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining.

Mr. Limpho Mandoro, Social Dialogue and Labour Administration Specialist at the ILO Decent Work Team, explained that the workshop aims to enhance negotiation skills for effective collective bargaining. He added that stronger negotiation capacity benefits institutions, negotiators and the wider public by supporting national stability and inclusive development. The initiative aligns with ILO Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organize, as well as Convention No. 151 on Labour Relations in the Public Service, which encourages dialogue between authorities and public employees.

Participants were urged to apply the skills gained to promote constructive engagement, resolve disputes amicably, and ensure labour-related issues are addressed through dialogue rather than confrontation. The workshop is part of ongoing efforts by the Government of Lesotho, with ILO support, to align national labour practices with international standards while advancing fairness, inclusivity, and decent work for all.