Pan-Arab conference aims to reform labour governance

The ILO, Arab Labor Organization and high-level representatives from governments, unions and employers’ organizations will discuss labour market reform in the context of Arab transitions.

In collaboration with the Arab Labor Organization, the ILO Regional Office for Arab States and the ILO Sub-Regional Office in Cairo will hold a pan-Arab conference to discuss labour market governance in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in the context of the ongoing transitions across the region.

The conference aims to contribute to the reform of labour administrations and labour governance, as well as to enhance capacities to respond to the needs and challenges of new realities in the Arab world.

“Labour market governance in the context of changing Arab societies" brings together labour ministers as well as heads of workers' unions and employers’ organizations from across the MENA to exchange experiences and to share examples of best practices from countries that have experienced similar transitions to those occurring today.

The conference will conclude with a set of recommendations put forth by representatives from different working groups. Suggested reforms may relate to labour legislation, freedom of association, improving productivity and competitiveness, establishing the mechanisms needed for more comprehensive industrial relations, social dialogue as well as the implementation of international labour standards.