Solidariteit / Mwu Solidarity

ABOUT US

Solidarity is your partner, your older brother in the workplace, as it were – the one who has been protecting its members’ rights against exploitation in the workplace since 1902; the one who even creates job security for you as a professional individual.

Solidarity currently offers a dependable service to approximately 140 000 members in all occupational fields, collectively and professionally, and has the passion and knowledge to look after its members’ interests and to ensure that their rights are protected in the workplace. The union has more than 20 offices countrywide and members are served by more than 300 staff members and 1 275 union representatives in thousands of companies. In short: Solidarity ensures that its members receive the necessary assistance to protect their work and therefore their income, because your job is our job!

Background

The Solidarity of today dates back to 22 June 1902 when the Transvaal Miners’ Association was founded. The trade union Solidarity celebrated its 110th anniversary in 2012. Solidarity therefore has 110 years’ experience in South Africa’s labour market.

In its 110 years the trade union underwent four major transformations. Many South Africans will be familiar with the Mineworkers’ Union, that is the MWU, which was the name the Transvaal Miners’ Association’s adopted in 1913. In 2001 the MWU changed to MWU-Solidarity and since 2002 the trade union has been known as Solidarity.

We believe in

• Christian foundation
• Collective bargaining
• Connect South Africa and the Constitution
• Independent from party politics
• Protection of minorities and democracy
• The fair implementation of affirmative action
• Afrikaans
• Free market economy - Responsible job relationships
• Self-employment and sustainable development

SERVICES

The following is a summary of the benefits attached to membership of Solidarity. These are subject to the constitution and policy of the union as well as the rules contained in the Rule Book and may be amended by the Executive Council of Solidarity without prior notice.

• Work-related Legal Aid
• Study Benefit
• Maternity Benefit
• Advice on Civil Law
• Study Funding
• Collective Bargaining
• Occupational Health & Safety
• Permanent Medical Disability Benefit
• Recognition of Previous Membership
• Solidarity Financial Services
• Funeral Benefit
• Weekly Newsletter
• Medical & Gapcover
• Solidarity Magazine
• Career
• Recreation
• Will
• Debt counselling