Evaluation Learnings Search

Learning Description

Sector-Specific Needs Assessments. Although the project did not conduct initial needs assessments specifically for workers or for high-risk sectors, 90% of evaluation participants said that the project was meeting the needs and priorities of all stakeholders (with 10% stating that their sector-specific needs were being met as they did not know about other sectors). A sector-specific needs assessment, conducted at the beginning of implementation, would have been beneficial to determine workers’ needs for each sector. A trade union respondent thought that if union representatives could gain the skills to conduct a sector-specific needs assessment for their sector, it would be beneficial for their workers when the union engages in social dialogues, such as collective bargaining.

Learning Description

Embedded lawyers and specialists. The project recruited, embedded trained and designated lawyers into the Georgian Trade Unions Confederation. These lawyers provided technical assistance, practical support, and mentoring to a cadre of Georgian Trade Unions Confederation lawyers.

Learning Description

Roundtables. The project conducted two bilateral worker employer roundtables (for the service sector and the construction sector), bringing people together to discuss needs, priorities, and current key issues, which was a first step in tripartite social dialogue.

Learning Description

Training on the identification of labor law violations and submission of justiciable claims. The project’s training on the identification of violations and the submission of evidence-based claims was a unique learning experience for workers and trade unions.

Learning Description

Using radio programs to link trade unions with local organizations and the public. The use of radio programs was an effective and low-cost means to connect unions with other local organizations and authorities and to communicate their situation and messaging to the public.

Learning Description

Using information and communications technology tools to carry out training and legal assistance activities and expand linkages with other stakeholders. Strengthening workers’ ability to use information and communications technology (internet, software, and cell phones) as part of their day-to-day activities improved the reach and quality of their work. Worker-promoters provided support to union affiliates, connected with labor inspection staff, and ran the case tracking system using these means. They also used virtual advocacy to reach hundreds of thousands of people.

Learning Description

Promoting replication of training activities in the workplace by worker-promoters. The direct replication of trainings in the workplace by worker-promoters helped the project reach more beneficiaries, well beyond its original target, which contributed to its sustainability.

Learning Description

Establishing linkages with academia and customizing the training on labor law to the needs of agricultural and textile workers so that it became an actionable input for union leaders. Linking academia and trade unions not only helped to provide high quality training but facilitated replication by worker-promoters and students.

Learning Description

Building Commitment and Ownership: Do WITH them rather than FOR them. The project was mostly implemented in partnership with and through trade unions, rather than “for them.” Union leaders’ willingness and commitment to continue defending workers’ rights became the prime pillars for sustainability.

Learning Description

Strengthening unions by including underserved communities. U.S. Department of Labor and project implementers’ support to unions’ efforts in addressing the expectations of rural, female and young workers may help boost membership and ensure generational succession in unions.