On Wednesday, July 1st, 2026, Marc-Elie Nelson, the Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, officially launched the process of establishing a social dialogue forum for the textile sector in the Northeast Department.

In the presence of officials from public institutions, social partners, and Joni Musanayaba, Representative of the International Labour Organization (ILO), this strategic meeting aims to foster a climate of trust and prevent conflicts in this key sector for the national economy.

The Minister, speaking via videoconference, reiterated that this bilateral framework will allow representatives of workers and employers to regularly exchange views on major issues, in accordance with the fundamental principles of the ILO (freedom of association, collective bargaining, and decent work). This initiative also addresses the requirements of the Haitian Hemisphere Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) and the Haitian Economic Lift Program (HELP), which make access to the U.S. market contingent upon strict adherence to international labor standards.

"The textile and apparel sector remains one of the main drivers of the national economy. It provides thousands of direct and indirect jobs, contributes significantly to our exports, and represents an important source of services for our country," Minister Nelson noted in his opening remarks. This forum aims to provide the region with a sustainable framework for dialogue. The stated objective is to prevent conflicts, establish a climate of trust, and foster harmonious professional relationships, thereby addressing the structural challenges facing this industry.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (MAST) reaffirmed its commitment to combating sexual harassment, child labor, and all forms of discrimination, while promoting health and safety in the workplace. By paving the way for structured social dialogue, the Government is laying a crucial foundation for a fairer and more competitive textile industry, placing people and respect for their rights at the heart of its priorities.

IH/ iciHaiti