Organised Labour Warns Ghana Nearing Unemployment Crisis, Urges Urgent Reforms
Organised Labour has raised alarm over Ghana’s deteriorating unemployment situation, warning that the country is edging towards a “crisis level” unless urgent and decisive steps are taken to address job creation, employment quality and rising youth joblessness.
The concerns were outlined in a keynote address delivered by the Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress, Joshua Ansah, during the 2026 May Day celebration held at Jackson Park in Koforidua on May 1.
Speaking on the theme “Pivoting to Growth, Jobs, and Sustainable Livelihoods Beyond Macroeconomic Stability,” Mr Ansah emphasised the need for Ghana to move beyond macroeconomic metrics and assess whether economic growth is translating into sustainable and decent employment for citizens.
He indicated that despite years of economic expansion, job creation has failed to keep pace with the growing number of educated young people entering the workforce.
According to him, many graduates remain without jobs for prolonged periods after completing their studies, while others are compelled to accept roles that do not match their training and competencies.
“I say with no fear of contradiction that decent employment or the absence of it remains one of the most critical economic and social challenges facing Ghana, and it could evolve into a political issue if left unchecked. We are fast approaching crisis level, Mr President,” he stated.
In addition to unemployment, the TUC highlighted concerns about the nature of existing jobs, pointing to low remuneration, poor working conditions and limited access to social protection.
Mr Ansah noted that a large proportion of workers are not covered by social security schemes, leaving them without pension benefits, while others continue to work under unsafe and demanding conditions.
He also criticised the increasing shift from permanent employment to fixed-term contract arrangements with reduced benefits, describing it as a growing threat to job security.
Mr Ansah cautioned that persistently high levels of youth unemployment and underemployment could trigger serious social consequences if not addressed promptly.
He described the situation as a “waste of human resources” and warned that a rising number of frustrated, educated but unemployed youth could become a destabilising force if the trend continues.
He therefore called on government, employers and other social partners to work collaboratively to address structural challenges within the labour market.
“When we work together, we can ensure that this situation does not escalate further and that Ghana fully harnesses the potential of its young and educated population,” he said.
