GCC countries’ work to ensure safe labour mobility pathways highlighted

Doha, Qatar: Minister of Labour H E Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri attended 112th International Labour Conference in Geneva, along with other labour ministers, delegation leaders, and worker and employer representatives from ILO member states.

The Ministry of Labour’s participation at the International Labour Conference with a high-level delegation reflects its commitment to engaging with international organizations and exchanging views on international labour sector matters.

During his address on behalf of the GCC countries H E Dr. Ali bin Samikh Al Marri emphasised the ILO Director-General’s report’s focus on social justice goals for two consecutive years, highlighting the significance of the new social contract and tripartite representation in enhancing the social dialogue process and evaluating the commitment of governments, employers, and workers.

He stated that the ILO, having over a century of existence, should be evaluated based on its impact on social justice, highlighting the organization’s success in addressing labour issues through a collaborative approach that considers the diverse interests among its constituents.

The Minister highlighted that the Director-General’s report recognised the extent of difficulties, which necessitate united actions from all countries, international organisations and entities in more comprehensive collaboration frameworks among powerful international forces and entities, stressing that the force of change is greater than the complexities of reality and able to resolve crises such climate change, technological advancement, unorganised economy, debt crisis and other challenges impacting the work environment.

Al Marri emphasised the GCC countries’ work to ensure safe labour mobility pathways with good governance, fair employment, and decent work through innovative programs, effective systems, and advanced technology in contracting, wage, and social protection.

 His Excellency discussed the first meeting of the Doha Dialogue that includes GCC countries, Jordan, Lebanon, and African nations sending labour, forming a voluntary platform for dialogue between labour-receiving and sending nations.

The Minister thanked the ILO for hosting the International Labour Conference and facilitating idea exchanges among governments, employers, and workers.

He expressed appreciation to all delegations for their productive suggestions that aim to enhance prosperity and development for present and future generations.

Nearly 5,000 attendees from 187 member states — comprising governments, employers, and workers — are participating in the current session of the International Labour Conference. The conference, continuing until next Friday, will review reports from the Chairman of the FAO Board of Directors and the Director General of FAO.

It will also evaluate the FAO’s programmes and budget and examine information and reports concerning the implementation of labour standards, recommendations, and conventions.

The conference’s plenary session will also address biohazard protection and the strategic goal of fundamental principles and rights at work, decent work, and the care economy.