ILO Urges Global Action for Inclusive Labor Markets at Riyadh Conference

The International Labour Organization (ILO) Director-General, Gilbert F. Houngbo, urged global action to foster inclusive labor markets during the Second Global Labor Market Conference in Riyadh.

Houngbo highlighted progress in the global labor market, emphasizing the importance of social justice, decent work, and equitable opportunities. He noted improvements in job quality, formal employment, and historically low unemployment rates but warned of persistent inequities affecting women, youth, and vulnerable populations.

Houngbo stressed the need for urgent action to ensure fair sharing of economic growth and build inclusive labor markets based on decent work and social justice principles. The conference aimed to address challenges through structural reforms, including investments in education, skills training, and equitable access to opportunities.

Houngbo also emphasized the role of social dialogue in addressing labor market issues and encouraged collaboration among governments, employers, and workers' representatives. The conference included bilateral meetings and a memorandum of understanding signing to deepen cooperation and implement reforms for decent work.