ILO Calls for Inclusive Labour Market Reforms

The global labour market has shown resilience with historically low unemployment, improved job quality, and increased formal employment. However, persistent inequalities continue to challenge economic stability, requiring policy interventions to ensure equitable progress, says Gilbert Houngbo, Director General, International Labour Organization (ILO). 

At the second Global Labour Market Conference (GLMC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Houngbo emphasized the need for social justice and decent work. He outlined key challenges, including youth unemployment, decent work deficits, and the disproportionate impact on women and vulnerable populations. He also pointed to broader economic pressures, such as digitalization, climate action, demographic shifts, and geopolitical instability, as factors reshaping employment opportunities and job security.  

Houngbo also underscored the need for structural improvements in labour markets, including investment in education and skills training to prepare workers for AI-driven industries and the green economy. He called for enhanced social protection systems and policies that promote equitable access to employment opportunities. Social dialogue, he said, remains critical in fostering collaboration between governments, employers, and worker representatives to navigate these changes effectively.  

He also urged conference participants to engage with the Global Coalition for Social Justice, an ILO initiative aimed at facilitating international cooperation to address inequalities in the workforce.

During the conference, Houngbo met with over 40 labour ministers, including Saudi Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmad bin Sulaiman AlRajhi. The two officials signed a memorandum of understanding to expand cooperation between the ILO and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. The agreement aims to support ongoing labour market reforms in the country and address decent work gaps.