High cost of living has become a global issue of concern. With experts pointing towards the Russia- Ukraine war to be key factor in the rise of fuel and food products globally. The high cost of living has influenced the South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) to call for a national workers strike dubbed “National Shutdown”.
Saftu plans to lead thousands of workers and activists in a nationwide strike on the 24th of August 2022. To protest against the high rates of unemployment, increased electricity tariffs and steep increases in fuel and transport costs.
“24 August has to be the beginning of mobilizing the working class, not an isolated incident that aims at maximum publicity for anybody. We declare that we must seek to work together, in solidarity, with other trade union federations, unions, and other worker- oriented organizations to protect workers. We need unity in action — on the ground — not just simply declared”,” Saftu General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi stated in a press briefing.
There have also been protests in Bangladesh over the high cost of living in the country. Which saw fuel prices raise steeply by 50%. The government had imposed also a daily 2 hour power cut “load shedding” last month. To assist in power rationing a common practice across many countries struggling to meet the power demands/needs of its population.
Bangladesh Cabinet Secretary Khandker Anwarul Islam, also announced that schools will now run for 5 days as opposed to the normal 6 days in countries current system. He also announced that government institutions will now operate for 7 hours as opposed to the usual 8 hours. With the government seeking a loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to aid the country.
