COTU-K Secretary General Francis Atwoli has voiced concern over the rising wave of political unrest across Africa, urging trade unions to take a proactive role in defending peace and stability.

Addressing delegates at the official opening of the ITUC-Africa Regional Conference on Peace and Security on Friday, July 18, 2025, Atwoli warned that escalating instability is putting the continent’s most vulnerable especially workers, women, and children at great risk.

“We cannot sit back and watch as instability takes root and undermines the peace that millions rely on for their livelihoods and social progress,” said Atwoli.

The conference brought together leaders from more than 30 national trade union centers across Africa, with a focus on strengthening the role of unions in conflict prevention and peacebuilding efforts at both national and regional levels.

Citing data from the 2024 Global Peace Index, Atwoli pointed to a decline in peaceful conditions worldwide, with Sub-Saharan Africa witnessing a troubling spike in military coups, civil strife, and violent extremism.

He highlighted the far-reaching consequences of political unrest, including the collapse of industries, widespread job losses, weakened union membership, suppression of labor rights, and the displacement of workers into insecure and exploitative work environments.

Atwoli reaffirmed COTU-K’s commitment to fostering peace through social dialogue and tripartite cooperation, working alongside governments and employers to tackle challenges like economic injustice and youth unemployment.

He also called on political leaders to exercise restraint and urged young people not to allow themselves to be manipulated into creating chaos where there is peace.

“COTU has consistently served as a voice of reason, reminding leaders of their responsibility and encouraging youth to reject involvement in political disruptions,” he said.

In his closing remarks, Atwoli appealed to the media to play a more responsible role, urging journalists to avoid content that could incite the public or contribute to unrest.

“I also made a special appeal to the media to uphold ethical standards and avoid being used as a platform to trigger actions that destabilize our societies,” he added.