Building social partnership in Armenia’s mining sector

This session was particularly timely given the recent strike at the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine (ZCMC), where hundreds of workers downed tools over disputes with management. The industrial action highlighted both the challenges facing workers in Armenia's mining industry and the urgent need for stronger mechanisms of dialogue and negotiation. By addressing these tensions through structured social partnership, unions and employers have a better chance of preventing conflicts and ensuring fair treatment in the future.

The event brought together 18 participants, including leaders and activists of the primary trade union organizations at ZCMC, Agarak Copper-Molybdenum Combine (ACMC) and Kapan Mining and Processing Plant, as well as representatives of the Republican Sectoral Union of Miners, Metallurgists and Jewelers of Armenia. The discussions were moderated by Eduard Pakhlevanyan, chairperson of the Sectoral Trade Union.

The seminar served as preparatory work ahead of scheduled meetings with the management of ZCMC. In the first sessions, participants reviewed the definition, principles and models of social dialogue, both internationally and in Armenia. Examples of successful practices were presented, followed by reports from participants on the state of social partnership at their enterprises. Gaps, challenges and opportunities were identified, along with strategies for strengthening union-employer cooperation.

Pakhlevanyan outlined the roles and responsibilities of both employers and unions in effective dialogue, highlighting the critical role of trade unions in protecting workers' rights. Case studies, including one focused on ZCMC, helped participants analyze current challenges and develop potential solutions.

The second day of the seminar examined barriers to social dialogue and explored mechanisms for overcoming them, such as collective agreements and regular consultations. Specialists from CTUA led sessions on the legal protection of trade union leaders and the application of ILO Conventions 87 and 98, reinforcing the importance of international labor standards in union activity.

A panel discussion allowed participants to share experiences, debate tools for social dialogue, and draft proposals for improving social partnership at their workplaces.

The seminar concluded with the selection of a delegation of trade union activists from ZCMC to engage in upcoming talks with the company's management. Together, participants developed a strategy and identified priority topics for discussion. CTUA specialists will continue to provide support remotely as the union representatives prepare for negotiations.

"Through open dialogue and clear strategies, we are building stronger, more sustainable partnerships that will benefit both workers and enterprises," said Eduard Pakhlevanyan.

said Kemal Özkan, IndustriALL assistant general secretary.