JHASS
The Role of the National Labour Commission in Managing Industrial and Labour Disputes in Ghana: Procedures, Processes, and Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
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Abstract
This article is an analysis of the contributions of the National Labour Commission (NLC), Ghana. The NLC, established on the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), applies ADR techniques, including negotiation, mediation and arbitration for the effective resolution of industrial and labour disputes. It aims to ensure that both employer and worker interests are recognised and respected within the confines of the labour laws of Ghana and in accordance with standards of the International Labour Organisation (ILO). This research adopts a doctrinal approach analysis of Act 651, the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010, alongside the National Labour Commission Regulations, 2006 (L.I. 1822) and Labour Regulations, 2007 (L.I. 1833). The legislative analysis, effectiveness assessment, and the details of the comparative studies with benchmarked best practice show that while the NLC has achieved a lot since its establishment, there is still room for further enhancement. Research outcomes suggest that the major function of the NLC is the exercise of conflict and relationship management in the Ghana labour landscape. However, the study shows that there is a need to conduct regular reviews to cope with challenges emanating from the dynamic nature of labour relations in Ghana and to ensure continued compliance with international standards. This paper aims to assist in the understanding of labour relations and achieving industrial harmony in the Ghanaian context.
References
Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010 (Act 798).
Asamoah, O. (2022). Functions and roles of the National Labour Commission in labour disputes resolution [Presentation]. A Talk on the Labour Act 2003; Act 651.
Generis Global Legal Services. (n.d.). Overview of labor dispute resolution mechanisms in Ghana. Retrieved January 6, 2025, from
https://generisonline.com/overview-of-labor-dispute-resolution-mechanisms-in-ghana/
Ghana Employers' Association. (2020). Examining the cost and causes of the rising industrial disputes in Ghana. International Labour Organization.
https://www.ghanaemployers.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/GEA_ILO-Industrial-Relations_Report-2020.pdf
International Labour Organization. (2014). Effective labour dispute prevention & resolution: Roles of conciliation/mediation and arbitration.
https://www.ioe-emp.org/fileadmin/ioe_documents/publications/Policy%20Areas/international_industrial_relations/EN/_2014-11-10__Effective_Labour_Dispute_Prevention___Resolution_-_ILO_Presentation.pdf?form=MG0 AV3
Labour Act (Ghana), 2004 (Act 651).
Labour Regulations, 2007 (L.I. 1833).
National Labour Commission Regulations, 2006 (L.I. 1822).
Olabiyi, O. J. (2022). A study of conflict resolution mechanisms and employment relations in multinational corporations in Africa: Empirical evidence from Nigeria and South Africa. SA Journal of Human Resource Management, 20(0), a1900.
https://doi.org/10.4102/sajhrm.v20i0.1900
Talvik, A. (2015). Best practices in resolving employment disputes in international organizations. International Labour Office.
https://www.ilo.org/sites/default/files/wcmsp5/groups/public/@dgreports/@jur/documents/publication/wcms_ 459955.pdf?form=MG0AV3
How to cite this paper
The Role of the National Labour Commission in Managing Industrial and Labour Disputes in Ghana: Procedures, Processes, and Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
How to cite this paper: Ogochukwu C. Nweke, Bashiru Salifu Zibo, Emmanuel Kweku Amoako Appiah, Samuel N. K. Agbenyega. (2025) The Role of the National Labour Commission in Managing Industrial and Labour Disputes in Ghana: Procedures, Processes, and Dispute Resolution Mechanisms. Journal of Humanities, Arts and Social Science, 9(4), 671-676.
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/jhass.2025.04.001
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