SYNPHOT Togo Launches Organizing Project to Boost Healthcare Unionization

• SYNPHOT launched its 'Organizing' project in Lomé, Togo to boost union membership among healthcare professionals.
• The project aims to reach 10,000 active members by the end of 2028 with a coverage rate of 85% in public and private facilities.
• Togolese law requires healthcare professionals to join a union before filing complaints, underscoring the importance of unionization in the sector.
• SYNPHOT's project focuses on inclusion of women and young professionals, historically underrepresented in decision-making positions within the healthcare industry.

The Syndicat national des praticiens hospitaliers du Togo (SYNPHOT) has launched its 'Organizing' project in Lomé, Togo on August 17, 2026. The project aims to increase union membership and adherence to syndicalization laws among healthcare professionals. With the support of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and Public Service International (PSI), the main funder, SYNPHOT seeks to reach 10,000 active members by the end of 2028, with 5,000 new additions and a coverage rate of 85% in both public and private healthcare facilities. Gilbert Tsolenyanu, general secretary of SYNPHOT, emphasized that the goal is to establish a lasting union through a strong syndical culture and new member adhesion. He noted that Togolese law requires professionals to be unionized before filing complaints.

In Togo, healthcare professionals are required by law to join a union before pursuing professional grievances. This requirement underscores the importance of unionization in the sector. SYNPHOT's Organizing project aims to increase membership and adherence to these laws, potentially impacting client compliance and professional practice for lawyers advising clients in the Togolese healthcare sector. The project's focus on inclusion of women and young professionals is also noteworthy, as they have historically been underrepresented in decision-making positions within the healthcare industry.

The SYNPHOT Organizing project has significant implications for the Togolese healthcare sector. By increasing union membership and adherence to syndicalization laws, the project aims to establish a lasting union culture among healthcare professionals. This could lead to improved working conditions, better job security, and enhanced professional representation for healthcare workers in Togo. The project's emphasis on inclusion and diversity also aligns with international labor standards and best practices.

Lawyers advising clients in the Togolese healthcare sector should be aware of the SYNPHOT's Organizing project, which aims to increase union membership and adherence to syndicalization laws, potentially impacting client compliance and professional practice.

Source: Original reporting via IciLome