WOSA was launched in April 1990 as a national organisation. It is opposed to racism, tribalism and sexism and supports Socialism, leadership of the black working class, accountability and democracy. It was felt that an organisation was needed that could raise workers' issues without being aligned to any political parties (the example of the ANC/SACP Alliance was used). The issues that WOSA deals with relate to working conditions, wages, unemployment, housing, education, health and transport.