As the largest public service union in Somalia and represents workers in various fields including municipality sector, healthcare, education, social services, sanitation workers, firefighter, childcare providers and public administration, has issued a strong statement urging the Somali government to halt the privatization of essential public services. This call to action arises from serious concerns about the potential negative impacts privatization could have on both workers and the public.
Key Concerns Regarding Privatization
- Impact on Workers’ Rights and Job Security
Privatization often leads to job cuts and increased job insecurity for public service workers. With essential services being transferred to private companies, employees face the risk of layoffs, reduced benefits, and the erosion of labor rights. - Quality of Public Services
The focus of private companies on profit maximization can undermine the quality of services that citizens rely on. Privatization may result in higher costs for consumers and decreased access to necessary services, particularly affecting the most vulnerable members of society. - Access to Essential Services
Services such as healthcare, education, sanitation, and public transport are fundamental to the well-being of communities. Privatization can create barriers for low-income families, making essential services less accessible and affordable. - Public Accountability and Transparency
Public services managed by the government are accountable to the citizens they serve. In contrast, privatized services may lack the same level of transparency, making it challenging for the public to hold providers accountable for service quality and accessibility. - Critical Services Under Government Control
SOMWU emphasizes that key sectors such as electricity and public transport must remain under government control to ensure they are managed in the public interest. Privatizing these services could lead to monopolies that prioritize profit over service delivery.
Conclusion
In light of these concerns, SOMWU is urging the Somali government to reconsider its approach to privatization and to prioritize the preservation of essential public services. The union believes that maintaining public control over these services is crucial for protecting workers’ rights, ensuring quality service delivery, and upholding accountability to the public. It is imperative for the government to engage with SOMWU and other stakeholders in developing policies that strengthen public services and support the workforce that delivers them.
This call to action reflects SOMWU’s commitment to advocating for the rights of its members and ensuring that essential public services remain accessible and effective for all citizens of Somalia.
