The International Labour Organisation has called for collective global action to foster inclusive labour markets, emphasising the importance of social justice, decent work, and equitable opportunities for all.
Speaking at the second Global Labour Market Conference in Riyadh, ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo highlighted the progress made in global labour markets, citing historically low unemployment rates, improved job quality, and increased formal employment.
Despite these gains, he warned that persistent inequalities continue to affect women, youth, and other vulnerable populations, underscoring the need for urgent action to ensure that the benefits of economic growth are shared fairly.
“The world of work is resilient, but we must address ways to build inclusive labour markets that work for everyone, based on decent work and social justice principles,” Houngbo said on its website. “We must act collectively and be ready to learn from each other. There is no single recipe; there is no magic bullet.”
Houngbo pointed to structural reforms as key to advancing inclusive labour markets, including investing in education and skills training to meet the evolving demands of AI-driven industries and the green economy. He also stressed the need for equitable access to opportunities, robust social protection systems, and inclusive approaches to sustainable and just transitions.
The Director-General highlighted the role of social dialogue as an essential mechanism for addressing labour market challenges. He encouraged collaboration among governments, employers, and worker representatives and urged conference participants to engage with the Global Coalition for Social Justice, an ILO-led platform designed to facilitate international cooperation and concrete actions to strengthen social justice worldwide.
In addition to his address, Houngbo participated in the GLMC’s Ministerial Roundtable and held bilateral meetings with several of the more than 40 labour ministers attending the conference, including Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Ahmad bin Sulaiman AlRajhi. During the meeting, the ILO and the Saudi Ministry signed a memorandum of understanding to expand and deepen cooperation, ensuring the effective implementation of reforms and addressing gaps in decent work in the Kingdom.
Houngbo commended the Government of Saudi Arabia for hosting the GLMC and fostering international dialogue on the future of work. “It is through initiatives like this that we can advance our collective goal of realising decent work and social justice,” he said.
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