Precarious work is typically non-permanent, temporary, casual, insecure and contingent. Workers in these jobs are often not covered by labour law and social security protections. Precarious work is caused by employment practices designed to maximize employer profits and flexibility and to shift risks onto workers.

Precarious work is an increasing problem on every continent, undermining wages and conditions of work and threatening to divide working people. In a number of countries trade unions have been fighting against the trend of precarious work. International solidarity on tackling this issue will be considered by the meeting.

Other issues on the agenda of the IMF Central Committee include preparing for the IMF Congress in 2009 and the designation of an Assistant General Secretary.

On Monday November 26, the IMF women's workshop on precarious work will hear reports from different regions on how women are affected by precarious work, to identify common objectives and to prepare for the discussion at Central Committee. It will also assist in strengthening the networks between women unionists attending the meeting.

The agenda, reports and other background information relevant to the IMF Central Committee and Women's Workshop are available on this page of the website.

March against precarious work!
At the conclusion of the meeting, delegates and local trade union activists will converge in down-town Salvador to protest against precarious work. Affiliates are encouraged to participate in the march with their trade union banners.

Visitor's guide to Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

•   Salvador, Bahia, Brazil