Employment Policy Convention, 1964 (No. 122) - Sudan (Ratification: 1970)

Individual Case (CAS) - Discussion: 2017, Publication: 106th ILC session (2017)



A Government representative expressed appreciation for the work of the Committee in examining the implementation of international labour standards. The speaker confirmed his Government’s commitment to comply with international labour standards and indicated that it had taken considerable efforts to comply with Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention. These efforts included the development of a roadmap for the formulation of a national employment policy and the definition of its guiding principles and strategic goals in consultation with the social partners. Following the Government’s request, an ILO/UNDP project had been concluded for the development of the roadmap as well as a project to strengthen technical and vocational skills of men and women, which was based on seven working papers drawn up by international experts in 2013, based on visits, meetings and roundtable workshops with the competent officials. These activities had resulted in important recommendations to guide the development of a national employment policy. In 2014, a 35-member working group of the High-Level Advisory Committee was established by Ministerial Decree No. 33 (2014) of 28 August 2014 and tasked with the development of a national employment policy, with the technical assistance from the ILO. A national expert was appointed to draw up the principal guidelines for the elaboration of the policy. The High-Level Advisory Committee, in cooperation with the ILO, had finalized a draft national employment policy by the end of 2016, which aimed to contribute to lowering the unemployment rate and alleviating poverty in Sudan, for submission to the competent authority, the Council of Ministers, for approval in January 2017. The speaker reconfirmed his Government’s commitment to its international obligations and its renewed efforts to achieve the goals of the five-year Economic Reform Programme (ERP) 2015–19. Information was also provided on the following measures: microfinance programmes; the provision of decent work opportunities to ensure productive employment in conditions of dignity; the establishment of effective employment policies in line with the needs of the labour market through improvement of the investment and employment climate for small enterprises, in addition to self-employment projects, employment programmes in the service sector and employment-intensive projects; linking educational policies and programmes with employment policies and plans, in line with the needs of the labour market; the submission to the Minister of Labour and Administrative Reform of a final draft of a national employment policy developed in consultation with the social partners for transmission to the competent authorities; the re-nationalization of the wheat-growing sector in the Blue Nile and Northern regions leading to effective production and employment creation; the establishment of agricultural projects in the Blue Nile region resulting in the activation of more than 2,000 farms; and public–private partnerships to reactivate the textile sector, leading to the creation of jobs for over 3,000 workers. The five-year ERP, 2015–19, contained additional elements, including plans for export products and a programme to revive Sudanese cotton cultivation and agriculture in the Blue Nile region, involving 2,400 farms. The Government had adopted a comprehensive employment policy through a national dialogue process, which was expected to have a considerable impact on organizational and political structures, including on the entities responsible for implementing the necessary policies that required coordination, such as the Ministry of Finance. This led to the establishment of an Agency for Indicative Planning, which would revise some of the economic policies that had a direct impact on employment creation at the national and local levels. The speaker recalled positive developments in Sudan’s foreign relations, including expectations regarding the lifting of the economic embargo next month, which would require the Government to reset its priorities, especially its investment plans, which had a direct impact on employment opportunities. Finally, the speaker expressed the hope that he had provided the Committee with the necessary clarifications.

The Employer members stated that this was the first time the Committee had examined the application of Convention No. 122 by Sudan. This priority Convention required governments to formulate an active employment policy, in consultation with the social partners. Sudan was a country in transition from a conflict to a post-conflict situation that had encountered multiple challenges and with wide disparities in development between its different regions. The country had endured military conflicts and 20 years of sanctions, natural disasters, and struggles in terms of economic growth, especially in its productive sectors; all factors that had contributed to high unemployment rates and inflation. These conditions had clearly affected the development of a national employment policy. Nevertheless, the Government had taken steps towards the development of an active national employment policy. These steps had been supported by the ILO, UNDP and other international organizations, as well as by the social partners. In respect of Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention, many measures had been taken. In 2011, the Government carried out a Labour Force Survey with the assistance of the ILO to identify indicators for the formulation of a national employment policy. Moreover, a tripartite recovery programme envisaged increased funding for education for the poor; increased microfinance funding and increased funding for agriculture and industry; and measures to promote youth employment and reduce the number of workers in the informal economy. In 2012, the Government launched the National Rural Women’s Development Programme and established the Department of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities. In 2014, the Ministry of Labour established a Coordinating Unit for Intensive Employment focusing on the creation of sustainable jobs for youth and vulnerable persons. In 2015, the Government approved the five-year ERP, 2015–19, which aimed to improve macroeconomic policies, investment opportunities and the competitiveness of national goods. In 2016, the Government had submitted a report showing the impact of these initiatives on employment. In relation to Article 3 of the Convention, the following actions were taken: (i) a tripartite National Advisory Committee for Labour Standards was established; (ii) the social partners were updating the National Jobs Charter to take new parameters into account and improve its implementation; and (iii) the social partners, in collaboration with the Government, were working to implement the Paid Training Programme, a programme to train 400,000 graduates in all sectors of economic activity. The Employer members welcomed these initiatives to promote economic growth, eradicate poverty, create jobs and encourage investment. The private sector, as a driver of employment, required an enabling environment to increase trade, facilitate export, and support diversification of the economy. This would only happen when necessary reforms were realized to combat bureaucracy, corruption and illegal practices and build a more conducive, transparent regulatory system. Given the urgency of the situation in Sudan, the Employer members called on the Government to develop a coherent national employment policy, linking all social and economic strategies together. The Government was encouraged to implement a coordinated and transparent action plan which clarified the roles and responsibilities of the social partners to enable them to work together to achieve measurable goals. They also called on the Government to build the capacities of the social partners to work together to implement the national employment policy.

The Worker members recalled that the promotion of employment was included in the mandate for the establishment of the ILO. The preamble to the ILO Constitution indicated that the prevention of unemployment was a measure to be taken to improve labour conditions. In order to address that concern, the ILO had developed several instruments, including Convention No. 122. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention required member States to adopt as a major goal an active employment policy designed to achieve certain objectives and to take the necessary measures to meet those objectives. In the case of Sudan, the Committee of Experts had noted that the Government had provided information on the application of these provisions, including the Labour Force Survey carried out in 2011 and the development of a roadmap and concept papers on the formulation on an employment policy. The Worker members recalled the inextricable link between full, productive employment and decent work. It followed that, in addition to the quantitative objectives, such as the number of jobs fixed by the Government, it was also important to set more qualitative objectives intended to promote all dimensions of decent work. The Government was therefore invited to follow up the request of the Committee of Experts to provide further information on the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy, taking into account the dimensions of decent work. With regard to the application of Article 2 of the Convention, the Government had referred to a survey carried out in 2011 within the framework of the development of the five-year ERP 2015–19, which allowed for the collection of useful data, particularly on unemployment in the country and its breakdown in rural and urban areas, and by sex. The Government was therefore requested to continue in that direction with a view to gathering reliable and up-to-date statistical data. Lastly, with regard to consultation held with the social partners on employment policies, the Government had set up the National Advisory Committee for Labour Standards. Recalling that the concept of the social partners entailed the representatives of both employers and workers, the Government was invited to ensure a balanced representation on that Committee, including, in particular, workers occupied in the informal sector and rural areas. The Convention did not stipulate either the form that this consultation should take or the time when it should take place. However, it was clear that specific consultation should be held at a time when it was still possible for the different partners to influence the development of the measures to be taken. The Government was therefore invited to give full effect to the Convention by replying to the Committee of Experts’ observations and the present Committee’s conclusions.

The Employer member of Sudan indicated that the employers’ organizations in Sudan had repeatedly been consulted on the development of a national employment policy and workers’ organizations had participated in various meetings in this regard. Sudanese employers were now engaged in consultations regarding the Act on private–public partnership. The Committee of Experts had noted the five-year plan, 2015–19, and noted that the reduction in several productive sectors had affected employment. In the past, Sudan was a successful wheat producer and the challenge was to revive this sector. Increased investment in cotton farming was called for and there had been an injection of funds by the private sector, particularly in the Blue Nile region. Employers were vital to employment promotion in this sector. Investment policies had helped certain manufacturing industries and had created employment opportunities in some sectors. In the state of Khartoum, the private sector in the textile industry established new enterprises, which had resulted in the creation of 2,400 jobs. Increased production in the oil sector resulted in the launch of several new industries and a relative increase in production in the established enterprises. Moreover, there had been measures taken in relation to animal husbandry and agro-industrial projects. Several projects had also been introduced in the food industry to rehabilitate enterprises. Furthermore, mills to produce processed foods at reasonable prices had been established. A review of policies on technical vocational education and training were being carried out to ensure that areas that were no longer relevant were not retained in revised training curricula.

The Worker member of Sudan indicated that workers’ organizations in Sudan had been part of the consultation process in relation to the development of a national employment policy. For instance, representatives of workers’ organizations had been represented in the Higher Council for Employment and in the National Committee for the Civil Service. The speaker stated that the Government had provided support for microfinance initiatives and for the establishment of a labour bank for workers. The Government had also provided subsidies to ensure that workers’ basic needs were met, in addition to providing support for housing and implementing social protection measures. In conclusion, the speaker emphasized that the Sudanese workers’ organizations were closely associated with all measures aimed at the implementation of the Convention and they would continue to play their part in all efforts aimed at the socio-economic development of the country.

The Government member of Kuwait, speaking on behalf of the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (CCG), welcomed the detailed information provided by the Government in connection with the most recent observation of the Committee of Experts on the application of the Convention. Technical assistance provided by the ILO was also welcomed. The speaker expressed the hope that such assistance would continue in order to provide the Government and the social partners with the necessary support to fully implement the provisions of the Convention. In conclusion, the speaker called upon the ILO and the Government to continue the dialogue and collaboration in this regard.

The Worker member of Nigeria said that employment participation was at the heart of dignity, well-being and shared prosperity for people, communities and economies. Referring to the definition of unemployment as persons who were currently not working but were willing and able to work for pay, currently available to work, and had actively searched for work, it was fair to mention that Sudan’s 20 per cent unemployment rate posed a serious cause for concern. The effects of unemployment on individuals, households and communities were well known, especially in relation to poverty and inequality. The situation was worse for young people who were unable, through gainful employment, to unleash their potential and skills to better their lot and contribute to family and community well-being. It was desperation in some cases that pushed young persons to engage in dangerous journeys across the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea. The letter and spirit of the provisions of the Convention aim to help to improve opportunities for the creation of decent, gainful and productive employment through a well-articulated employment policy. The development of a roadmap by the Government demonstrated its willingness to achieve the goals set forth in the Convention. The Government was however urged not to delay the process of adopting a national employment policy.

The Government member of Algeria thanked the Government representative of Sudan for the detailed information presented on the application of the Convention, which clearly reflected the Government’s political will and its efforts to develop a national employment policy, taking into account the capacities, and the economic and social conditions in the country, in the spirit of the Convention. He recalled the steps taken by the Government towards the development of a national policy in partnership with national experts, social partners and concerned parties, while emphasizing the importance of ILO technical assistance. The Government was encouraged to continue its efforts to develop and implement a national employment policy targeting the elimination of unemployment and the creation of decent work.

The Government member of Qatar expressed appreciation for the information provided by the Government, which confirmed its commitment to apply the provisions of the Convention. The speaker wished to commend the important steps taken by the Government, which moved closer towards the adoption of a national employment policy, in consultation with the social partners. Reference was made to the measures that had been adopted by the Government, in consultation with the social partners, and national and international investors, to create decent job opportunities through programmes aimed at promoting full and productive employment. The Government was committed to implement the Convention. The speaker hoped that the Committee would take these efforts into consideration. In conclusion, the ILO was encouraged to provide technical assistance in support of these efforts.

The Government representative thanked all the participants in the discussion and emphasized that his Government was committed to continue its cooperation with the ILO. A national employment policy would soon be adopted. A report on the application of the Convention would be submitted to the Committee of Experts in time for its next session, as well as reports on fundamental Conventions and other ratified Conventions. In response to the statements made, the speaker reiterated his Government’s commitment to adopt and implement a national employment policy, in line with the Convention. In a country that had an economy largely based on agriculture, the Government would continue to take measures to reduce unemployment as part of its poverty reduction strategies. Furthermore, his Government undertook to continue consultations with the social partners, including in the High-Level Advisory Committee, as great importance was attached to social dialogue. In fact, social dialogue was as the only way to implement an effective national employment policy. Data from the labour force surveys would be used to develop indicators for various regions of the country. The speaker assured the Committee that his Government was setting up a planning unit entrusted with ensuring equitable levels of development throughout the country. In conclusion, the speaker reiterated that his Government would continue to fully cooperate with the ILO and the social partners in order to effectively implement the Convention.

The Worker members thanked the Government for the explanations provided and hoped that the points discussed during the sitting would be translated into concrete measures. It was important that the Government should follow up on the observation of the Committee of Experts concerning the provision of further information on the formulation of an active employment policy, taking into account the concept of decent work. In its application of the Convention, the Government was bound to develop methods for the collection of labour market data in order to formulate coherent policies. Such methods could include regular surveys, in the vein of the Labour Force Survey carried out in 2011. Another option could be the establishment of a permanent observatory on employment, responsible for collecting relevant data. Lastly, with regard to consultations with the social partners, the Government was invited to ensure that an appropriate and relevant mechanism was in place that involved the social partners on an equal basis.

The Employer members thanked the Government for the information it had provided in relation to steps taken in order to adopt a national employment policy and to help mitigate the impact of the current situation in the country. They noted the information provided concerning the comprehensive economic and employment measures taken in order to declare and pursue an active employment policy designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment. They also took note of the information on positive employment data indicating that many initiatives were undertaken and jobs were created in the public and the private sectors. Employment happened when investment took place; the measure of whether an employment policy was successful or not was firstly whether it encouraged or discouraged investment, and then whether it encouraged or discouraged the creation of jobs. The Employer members called on the Government to: (i) develop a more coherent strategy where all scattered initiatives were structurally linked together to reinforce each other; (ii) develop a fair and effective governance that entailed processes, decisions and outcomes that ensured real solutions to local problems and secured sustainable development; (iii) apply a more coordinated and transparent national action plan, where all stakeholders and social partners had clear roles and responsibilities to participate and work together to reach more tangible and measurable goals; (iv) build the capacities of employers’ and workers’ groups, through social dialogue and tripartite cooperation that will help in speeding up the process of adopting and implementing a national employment policy; and (v) continue accepting ILO technical assistance to implement the above-noted objectives and achieve the expected results to fight poverty.

Conclusions

The Committee noted the information provided by the Government representative and the discussion that followed.

Taking into account the persistence of high unemployment and underemployment which principally affects the most vulnerable persons, women and youth, the Committee requested the Government of Sudan to:

- develop a coherent strategy, in the framework of the national policy, to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment with the participation of representatives of the most representative workers’ and employers’ organizations;

- continue availing itself of ILO technical assistance, so that the capacity of employers’ and workers’ representatives can be strengthened.

Finally, the Committee invited the Government to avail itself of ILO technical assistance to implement these conclusions and achieve full, productive and freely chosen employment.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2018, published 108th ILC session (2019)

Follow-up to the conclusions of the Committee on the Application of Standards (International Labour Conference, 106th Session, June 2017)

The Committee recalls that the Conference Committee on the Application of Standards (CAS), in its June 2017 session, taking into account the persistence of high unemployment and underemployment in the country, which principally affects the most vulnerable persons, women and youth, requested the Government of Sudan to develop a coherent strategy, in the framework of the national policy, to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment with the participation of representatives of the most representative workers’ and employers’ organizations. It also requested the Government to continue availing itself of ILO technical assistance, so that the capacity of employers’ and workers’ representatives could be strengthened.

Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention. Formulation of an employment policy and coordination with poverty reduction. Consultation with the social partners. The Committee welcomes the information provided in the Government’s report in relation to efforts made to implement the conclusions of the CAS. The Government indicates that, to this end, a road map was developed for the implementation of the national employment policy and an agreement was signed between the Government, the ILO and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In addition, a 35-member working group of the tripartite High Consultative Committee for the National Employment Policy was tasked with formulating the policy, in accordance with Decision No. 33 of 28 August 2014 of the Minister of Labour and Administrative Reform. The High Consultative Committee carried out its work through specialized committees and working groups supported by international experts. The Government adds that the High Consultative Committee approved the policy in its final version on 15 November 2017. It was subsequently submitted and approved by the Minister of Labour and Administrative Reform on 13 December 2017, submitted to the Council of Ministers and examined by the joint meeting of technical committees in January 2018. The policy was submitted to the competent department in the Council of Ministers on 25 September 2018. After final review by that department, it will be submitted again to the Council of Ministers for approval. The Committee notes that the draft policy aims to promote productive and freely chosen work in which the worker can use his or her capacities without discrimination. The Government indicates that Sudan’s vision of the future is based on its national strategy 2007–31 and national five-year plans arising from the strategy. The Government adds that the policy is also based on the Sustainable Development Goals and existing poverty reduction strategies. The draft policy provides for operationalizing strategies to: promote growth that supports employment; improve the performance of the labour market; and improve the quantity and quality of the vocational training system. The Government emphasizes that social protection is a priority. The Committee welcomes the efforts made by the Government to develop and implement a national employment policy in accordance with the recommendations made by the Conference Committee. It invites the Government to continue to provide updated detailed information in this regard, and to provide a copy of the policy once it is adopted. In addition, the Committee requests the Government to continue to provide detailed information on the consultations held with the social partners in relation to the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy, as well as to provide information on consultations with representatives of the persons affected by the measures to be taken, such as women, young persons, those working in rural areas and in the informal economy.

Article 2. Collection and use of labour market data. Employment trends. In response to the Committee’s previous request, the Government once again communicates data from the 2011 Labour Force Survey. Noting the Government’s indication that the next Labour Force Survey will be finalized in 2019, the Committee reiterates its request that the Government provide updated statistical data, disaggregated as much as possible, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and visible underemployment, in the formal and informal economies.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes the observations of the Sudanese Businessmen and Employers Federation (SBEF), communicated together with the Government’s report.

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Formulation of an employment policy and coordination with poverty reduction. In its previous comments, the Committee invited the Government to provide information on the progress made towards the formulation of an active employment policy, as required by the Convention. The Government indicates in its report that a Labour Force Survey was carried out in 2011 in order to prepare indicators to assist in the formulation of an employment policy. In 2013, a roadmap and seven concept papers were prepared by international experts on a range of topics, including: the creation of job opportunities through small project development; the formulation of a vocational training policy; the social economy; social protection; social dialogue and the dynamics of the labour market; and the informal economy. The roadmap and concept papers were discussed in workshops and at a high-level round table which issued recommendations on the formulation of an employment policy. The Government indicates that a high-level advisory committee, composed of experts and the social partners, was set up in 2014 to formulate an employment policy. The high-level advisory committee has formulated the principal guidelines to be contained in the employment policy. With respect to plans and programmes designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government concerning the impact of measures implemented during the reporting period, including the impact of employment measures taken within the National Project for Rural Women Development, as well as various training measures targeting youth. The Committee also notes that a Coordinating Unit for Intensive Employment has been established within the Ministry of Labour and Administrative Reform that will focus on creating sustainable jobs for youth. The Government indicates that a five-year Economic Reform Programme (ERP) 2015–19 was approved, which aims to benefit from value-added results in manufacturing and agricultural industrialization, while focusing on the need to increase the competitiveness of national goods. In its observations, the SBEF refers to the importance of the ERP 2015–19, which includes concrete quantitative goals and indicators, including in relation to the diverse resources available in the country and increasing the competitiveness of national goods. The ERP’s objectives include the creation of 1 million jobs in manufacturing industries. The SBEF adds that there is a need for broad government reform so as to promote interest in the real economy, reform the public service and combat corruption. The SBEF is of the view that these are all serious issues that must be addressed to provide jobs, combat poverty and expand productive work. The Committee requests the Government to provide further information on the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy, as required by the Convention, and on the implementation of the Economic Reform Programme 2015–19. Please also provide a copy of the text of the national employment policy, once it is adopted. The Committee also requests the Government to continue to provide information on the employment measures taken to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment, and on their results.

Article 2. Collection and use of labour market data. The Government indicates that data collected through the Labour Force Survey were used in the formulation of the ERP 2015–19. The Committee notes from the data provided that the unemployment rate was 18.5 per cent in 2011, with 16 per cent unemployment in rural areas compared to 22.9 per cent unemployment in urban areas. It further notes the statistical data provided, disaggregated by sex, employment status and by urban and rural areas. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide updated statistical data, disaggregated as much as possible, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, in both the formal and informal economies.

Article 3. Consultation with the social partners. The Committee welcomes the information provided by the Government on the establishment of a National Advisory Committee for Labour Standards, composed of representatives of the social partners and of other relevant bodies. The Government indicates that the social partners are seeking to update the National Jobs Charter in order to take new parameters into account and improve implementation of the Charter, so as to maintain existing jobs and create new ones. The social partners are also working with the Government to implement the Paid Training Programme which aims to train approximately 400,000 graduates in all sectors of economic activity. Moreover, efforts are being made to regulate the conditions of workers employed in the informal economy. The Committee requests that the Government provide detailed information on the consultations held with the social partners, including within the National Advisory Committee for Labour Standards, on the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. Please also include information on the consultations held with the representatives of the persons affected by the employment measures to be taken, such as those working in rural areas and in the informal economy.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Policies to promote employment and coordination with poverty reduction. The Committee notes the Government’s brief report received in May 2013 which refers to the launch of the National Rural Women’s Development Project (2012–16) and the establishment of the Department of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities. The Government listed the following measures taken under the Tripartite Recovery Programme for the period 2011–13: (i) an increase in education funding benefiting the poor resulting from tax increases; (ii) an increase in microfinance funding from 12 per cent in 2011 to 13 per cent in 2012; (iii) an increase in funding devoted to the productive sectors (agriculture and industry) from 30 per cent in 2011 to 40 per cent in 2012; (iv) the promotion of youth employment and the reduction of the flow of unemployed from abroad; and (v) the reduction of the number of workers in the informal economy while integrating them in the national economy. The Committee refers to its previous comments and invites the Government to indicate in its next report the progress made in formulating an active employment policy, as required by the Convention. It also invites the Government to include information on the implementation and results of the measures taken under the National Rural Women’s Development Project, the Tripartite Recovery Programme or other plans and programmes designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment.

Collection and use of labour market data. The Government indicates in its report that a Labour Force Survey (LFS) was conducted in 2012 with the assistance of the ILO. The Committee notes that the preliminary results of the LFS suggest a total population of about 29.95 million, of which 19.2 million (64.1 per cent) reside in rural areas and 10.74 million (35.9 per cent) in urban areas. It further notes that the total labour force was 8.97 million persons, of which 1.66 million were unemployed (8.5 per cent unemployment in rural areas and 10.7 per cent in urban areas). The Committee invites the Government to indicate in its next report the manner in which the employment data collected by the LFS was used for deciding on and reviewing employment measures, in cooperation with the social partners and representatives of the stakeholders in the rural sector and the informal economy (Articles 2 and 3). Please also include relevant statistical data, disaggregated as much as possible, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in both the formal and informal economy.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in policy formulation and implementation. The Committee refers to its previous comments and once again expresses its firm hope that the Government will supply detailed information in its next report on the consultations held with the social partners on the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. It also requests the Government to supply information on the consultations held with the representatives of the persons affected by the employment measures taken, such as those working in the rural sector and the informal economy.

ILO technical assistance programme. The Committee notes that the ILO provided technical assistance to the Government of Sudan through the organization of a tripartite workshop in August 2013, which included training on how to better meet the reporting obligations required by the Convention. The Committee hopes that in its next regular report, due in 2015, the Government will be in a position to provide detailed information on the effectiveness of the active employment policies implemented to achieve the objectives set out in the Convention.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its 2011 observation which read as follows:

Repetition

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Policies to promote employment and coordination with poverty reduction. In reply to its 2009 observation, the Government provided in September 2010 a brief report in which it recalled that, in the context of the five-year plan for the period 2007–11, a comprehensive strategy was adopted under which small employment projects aimed at poverty reduction were funded by the Government in collaboration with the Federation of Employers. Job opportunities were also created through funding and training activities for graduates and persons with disabilities. The Government also paid special attention to projects aimed at combating desertification and providing income-generating activities in regions suffering most from poverty. In its 2009 observation, the Committee noted that about 60–70 per cent of the population in the north and 90 per cent in the south of the country are estimated to be living below the poverty line, with incomes of less than US$1 per day. Persons living in rural areas, in particular women and internally displaced populations, are the hardest hit by poverty. Beyond the state of Khartoum, the infrastructure is either non-existent or underdeveloped. The Committee once again recalls that the UN adopted a policy for post-conflict employment creation, income generation and reintegration which stresses that, in post-conflict situations, employment is vital to short-term stability, reintegration, economic growth and sustainable peace. The Committee asks the Government to report in detail on the measures taken to develop and implement an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention, with the assistance of the ILO and other international agencies. The Government is also asked to provide detailed information on the results obtained, in the context of the five-year plan for 2007–11, in meeting the employment needs of vulnerable categories of workers, such as women, young persons, older workers and persons with disabilities.

Collection and use of labour market data. In its 2009 observation, the Committee noted that the Government carried out a population census in 2008 in order to compile information needed by planners and policy-makers. The Government expressed its intention to release the results of the census in 2009 and to prepare a survey for the collection of data and information on the labour market. In this respect, the Committee notes that the ILO provided training to concerned staff to carry out a labour market survey. The Committee invites the Government to provide in its next report an account of the progress made to improve the labour market information system and to include detailed statistics on the situation and trends in employment, specifying the manner in which the collected data has been used to determine and review employment policy measures.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in policy preparation and implementation. The Government refers in its report to the formulation and implementation of an employment policy in line with the Global Jobs Pact. It also indicates that a national charter was formulated with the full participation of the social partners. The Government intends to provide the Committee with information on the development of the national charter in a subsequent report. In the 2010 General Survey concerning employment instruments, the Committee underlines the importance of ongoing genuine tripartite consultations for tackling and alleviating the consequences of the global economic crisis (2010 General Survey, paragraph 788). The Committee expresses its firm hope that the Government will supply detailed information in its next report on the consultations held with the social partners on the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. It also requests the Government to supply information on the consultations held with the representatives of the persons affected by the employment measures to be taken, such as those working in the rural sector and the informal economy.

Technical assistance to fulfil reporting obligations and the requirements of the Convention. In view of the difficulties to comply with the reporting obligations under the Convention during these past few years and the lack of information in the last report received, the Committee notes that the preparation of a detailed report, including the information requested in this observation, will certainly provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of the employment policy in meeting the objectives of full and productive employment set out in the Convention. In this regard, the Government might wish to request technical assistance from the relevant units of the ILO to address gaps in the implementation of an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2011, published 101st ILC session (2012)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Policies to promote employment and coordination with poverty reduction. In reply to its 2009 observation, the Government provided in September 2010 a brief report in which it recalled that, in the context of the five-year plan for the period 2007–11, a comprehensive strategy was adopted under which small employment projects aimed at poverty reduction were funded by the Government in collaboration with the Federation of Employers. Job opportunities were also created through funding and training activities for graduates and persons with disabilities. The Government also paid special attention to projects aimed at combating desertification and providing income-generating activities in regions suffering most from poverty. In its 2009 observation, the Committee noted that about 60–70 per cent of the population in the north and 90 per cent in the south of the country are estimated to be living below the poverty line, with incomes of less than US$1 per day. Persons living in rural areas, in particular women and internally displaced populations, are the hardest hit by poverty. Beyond the state of Khartoum, the infrastructure is either non-existent or underdeveloped. The Committee once again recalls that the UN adopted a policy for post-conflict employment creation, income generation and reintegration which stresses that, in post-conflict situations, employment is vital to short-term stability, reintegration, economic growth and sustainable peace. The Committee asks the Government to report in detail on the measures taken to develop and implement an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention, with the assistance of the ILO and other international agencies. The Government is also asked to provide detailed information on the results obtained, in the context of the five-year plan for 2007–11, in meeting the employment needs of vulnerable categories of workers, such as women, young persons, older workers and persons with disabilities.

Collection and use of labour market data. In its 2009 observation, the Committee noted that the Government carried out a population census in 2008 in order to compile information needed by planners and policy-makers. The Government expressed its intention to release the results of the census in 2009 and to prepare a survey for the collection of data and information on the labour market. In this respect, the Committee notes that the ILO provided training to concerned staff to carry out a labour market survey. The Committee invites the Government to provide in its next report an account of the progress made to improve the labour market information system and to include detailed statistics on the situation and trends in employment, specifying the manner in which the collected data has been used to determine and review employment policy measures.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in policy preparation and implementation. The Government refers in its report to the formulation and implementation of an employment policy in line with the Global Jobs Pact. It also indicates that a national charter was formulated with the full participation of the social partners. The Government intends to provide the Committee with information on the development of the national charter in a subsequent report. In the 2010 General Survey concerning employment instruments, the Committee underlines the importance of ongoing genuine tripartite consultations for tackling and alleviating the consequences of the global economic crisis (2010 General Survey, paragraph 788). The Committee expresses its firm hope that the Government will supply detailed information in its next report on the consultations held with the social partners on the formulation and implementation of an active employment policy. It also requests the Government to supply information on the consultations held with the representatives of the persons affected by the employment measures to be taken, such as those working in the rural sector and the informal economy.

Technical assistance to fulfil reporting obligations and the requirements of the Convention. In view of the difficulties to comply with the reporting obligations under the Convention during these past few years and the lack of information in the last report received, the Committee notes that the preparation of a detailed report, including the information requested in this observation, will certainly provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of the employment policy in meeting the objectives of full and productive employment set out in the Convention. In this regard, the Government might wish to request technical assistance from the relevant units of the ILO to address gaps in the implementation of an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Policies to promote employment and coordination with poverty reduction. The Committee notes the Government’s report received in October 2008. In its 2005 observation, the Committee requested detailed information on the measures taken to ensure that employment, as a key element of poverty reduction, was central to macroeconomic and social policies. The Government refers to a strategy adopted for the period 2007–13, through which the Ministry of Labour intends to optimize the use of human resources within a framework of institutions and social justice, and which is aimed at realizing a solid legal framework in the country. According to the Government, the employment policy occupies a central axis in the five-year plan for 2007–11. In this context, a poverty reduction strategy and programmes were adopted for the employment of university graduates and rural workers. The Committee notes that, according to a Joint World Bank–UNDP evaluation, about 60–70 per cent of the population in the North and 90 per cent in the South of the country are estimated to be living below the poverty line, with incomes of less than US$1 per day. Persons living in rural areas, in particular women and internally displaced populations, are the hardest hit by poverty. Beyond the state of Khartoum, the infrastructure (roads, railways, power and water) is either non-existent or underdeveloped across the country. The Committee recalls that the UN adopted a policy for post-conflict employment creation, income generation and reintegration which stresses that, in post-conflict situations, employment is vital to short-term stability, reintegration, economic growth and sustainable peace. The Committee therefore invites the Government to report on the measures taken to develop and implement an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention, with the assistance of the ILO and other international agencies. The Government is also asked to provide information on how it intends to meet, in the context of the five-year plan for 2007–11, the employment needs of vulnerable categories of workers such as women, young persons, older workers and persons with disabilities.

Collection and use of employment data. The Government indicates that it carried out a population census in 2008 so as to compile information needed by planners and policy-makers. It further indicates that the results of this exercise would be released in 2009 and that this population data would lead to the preparation of a survey for the collection of data and information on the labour market. It further reports that, in September 2008, a workshop was held with the participation of experts, specialists and representatives of workers’ and employers’ organizations on data collection. The Committee also notes that the ILO was requested to provide technical assistance so as to carry out the labour market survey. The Committee invites the Government to provide an account of the progress made to improve the labour market information system and to include in its next report detailed statistics on the situation and trends in employment, specifying the manner in which the collected data has been used to determine and review employment policy measures.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in policy preparation and implementation. The Committee notes the Government’s statement indicating that no decision is taken without the participation of employers and workers. The Committee can only emphasize once again the importance of giving full effect to Article 3, specifically for Sudan which experiences a very high and persistent unemployment. The Committee hopes that the next report will include information on the consultations held with the representatives of social partners in order to secure their cooperation in the formulation and implementation of employment policy programmes and measures.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2007, published 97th ILC session (2008)

1. The Committee notes with regret that it has not received the Government’s report since the very brief November 2004 communication. The Committee asks the Government to provide a detailed report on the application of the Convention containing up to date and precise information and replying to its 2005 observation, which raised the following matters.

2. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Policies to promote employment and coordination with poverty reduction. The Government indicated that it had under consideration a programme for the period 2005–06 to combat unemployment with special reference to university graduates, and listed the main elements of that programme. The Government also indicated that it was in the process of preparing, with the assistance of the ILO, the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on the measures taken to ensure that employment, as a key element of poverty reduction, is central to macroeconomic and social policies. Furthermore, the Committee emphasizes the importance of establishing a system for compilation of labour market data and requests the Government to inform it of any progress made in this field and to provide in its next report disaggregated data on trends in the labour market, including information on the situation, level and trends of employment, underemployment and unemployment throughout the country and the extent to which they affect the most vulnerable categories of workers (such as women, young persons and rural workers). The Committee also asks the Government to inform it of the status of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper as well as any evaluation on the impact of its programme to combat unemployment focusing on university graduates.

3. Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Committee recalls that Article 3 of the Convention requires consultations with representatives of all persons affected, and particularly representatives of employers and workers, in the formulation and implementation of employment policies. It is the joint responsibility of the Government and the representative organizations of employers and workers to ensure that representatives of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups of the active population are associated as closely as possible with the formulation and implementation of measures of which they should be the prime beneficiaries (see paragraph 493 of the General Survey of 2004 on promoting employment). The Committee trusts that the Government will provide detailed information in this respect in its next report.

4. Part V of the report form. ILO technical assistance. Furthermore, the Committee requests the Government to describe in its next report the actions taken to implement an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention following the technical assistance received from the ILO.

5. The Committee underlines that the preparation of a detailed report, including the information requested in this observation, will certainly provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the achievements concerning the objective of full and productive employment laid down in the Convention.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2006, published 96th ILC session (2007)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its 2005 observation, which read as follows:

The Committee takes note of the Government’s very brief report received in November 2004.

1. Policies to promote employment and coordination with poverty reduction. The Government indicates that it has under consideration a programme for the period 2005-06 to combat unemployment with special reference to university graduates, and lists the main elements of this programme. The Government also indicates that it is in the process of preparing, with the assistance of the ILO, the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on the measures taken to ensure that employment, as a key element of poverty reduction, is central to macroeconomic and social policies. Furthermore, the Committee emphasizes the importance of establishing a system for compilation of labour market data and requests the Government to inform it of any progress made in this field and to provide in its next report disaggregated data on trends in the labour market, including information on the situation, level and trends of employment, underemployment and unemployment throughout the country and the extent to which they affect the most vulnerable categories of workers (such as women, young persons and rural workers). The Committee also asks the Government to inform it of the status of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper as well as any evaluation on the impact of its programme to combat unemployment focusing on university graduates (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention).

2. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Committee recalls that Article 3 of the Convention requires consultations with representatives of all persons affected, and particularly representatives of employers and workers, in the formulation and implementation of employment policies. It is the joint responsibility of the Government and the representative organizations of employers and workers to ensure that representatives of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups of the active population are associated as closely as possible with the formulation and implementation of measures of which they should be the prime beneficiaries (see paragraph 493 of the General Survey of 2004 on promoting employment). The Committee trusts that the Government will provide detailed information in this respect in its next report.

3. Part V of the report form. Finally, it requests the Government to describe in its next report the actions it has taken to implement an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention following the technical assistance received from the ILO.

4. The Committee underlines that the preparation of a detailed report, including the information requested in this observation, will certainly provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the achievements concerning the objective of full and productive employment laid down in the Convention.

The Committee hopes that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the very near future.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2005, published 95th ILC session (2006)

The Committee takes note of the Government’s very brief report received in November 2004.

1. Policies to promote employment and coordination with poverty reduction. The Government indicates that it has under consideration a programme for the period 2005-06 to combat unemployment with special reference to university graduates, and lists the main elements of this programme. The Government also indicates that it is in the process of preparing, with the assistance of the ILO, the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on the measures taken to ensure that employment, as a key element of poverty reduction, is central to macroeconomic and social policies. Furthermore, the Committee emphasizes the importance of establishing a system for compilation of labour market data and requests the Government to inform it of any progress made in this field and to provide in its next report disaggregated data on trends in the labour market, including information on the situation, level and trends of employment, underemployment and unemployment throughout the country and the extent to which they affect the most vulnerable categories of workers (such as women, young persons and rural workers). The Committee also asks the Government to inform it of the status of the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper as well as any evaluation on the impact of its programme to combat unemployment focusing on university graduates (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention).

2. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Committee recalls that Article 3 of the Convention requires consultations with representatives of all persons affected, and particularly representatives of employers and workers, in the formulation and implementation of employment policies. It is the joint responsibility of the Government and the representative organizations of employers and workers to ensure that representatives of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups of the active population are associated as closely as possible with the formulation and implementation of measures of which they should be the prime beneficiaries (see paragraph 493 of the General Survey of 2004 on promoting employment). The Committee trusts that the Government will provide detailed information in this respect in its next report.

3. Part V of the report form. Finally, it requests the Government to describe in its next report the actions it has taken to implement an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention following the technical assistance received from the ILO.

4. The Committee underlines that the preparation of a detailed report, including the information requested in this observation, will certainly provide the Government and the social partners with an opportunity to evaluate the achievements concerning the objective of full and productive employment laid down in the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2003, published 92nd ILC session (2004)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its 2001 direct request which read as follows:

Article 1 of the Convention. The Government states that employment promotion is encouraged through fostering self-employment. To this end, it has provided loans and training, including assistance to university graduates. In Khartoum State, 300 small-scale enterprises were aided, and in Jazira State 80 were helped. The Government also intends to improve training to government officials, to better match skills supplied to skills demanded. The Committee notes this information and asks further information on the impact of the measures mentioned by the Government on employment promotion. Please also describe in detail any other measures taken to promote employment, particularly in rural areas and amongst women. Overall, the Committee requests detailed information on all of the points raised in the report form, as well as disaggregated data on trends in the labour market.

Article 2. Please provide detailed information on how the employment policy and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy. Please also provide information on measures taken to establish a system for collecting data on the labour market.

Article 3. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the programmes to generate self-employment have been developed in consultation with employers’ and workers’ organizations. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on the nature of other consultations and their outcomes. Please also specify the manner in which consultations are held with other affected groups, such as rural and informal sector workers.

Part V of the report form. The Committee notes that the ILO has prepared a study on Poverty Eradication in Sudan (April 1998). Noting the Government’s request in its report for technical assistance in the area of management of small-scale enterprises, the Committee encourages the Government and the Office to examine appropriate ways in which assistance for employment generation, in the sense of the Convention, might be made available to Sudan.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2002, published 91st ILC session (2003)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its 2001 direct request which read as follows:

Article 1 of the Convention. The Government states that employment promotion is encouraged through fostering self-employment. To this end, it has provided loans and training, including assistance to university graduates. In Khartoum State, 300 small-scale enterprises were aided, and in Jazira State 80 were helped. The Government also intends to improve training to government officials, to better match skills supplied to skills demanded. The Committee notes this information and asks further information on the impact of the measures mentioned by the Government on employment promotion. Please also describe in detail any other measures taken to promote employment, particularly in rural areas and amongst women. Overall, the Committee requests detailed information on all of the points raised in the report form, as well as disaggregated data on trends in the labour market.

Article 2. Please provide detailed information on how the employment policy and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy. Please also provide information on measures taken to establish a system for collecting data on the labour market.

Article 3. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the programmes to generate self-employment have been developed in consultation with employers’ and workers’ organizations. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on the nature of other consultations and their outcomes. Please also specify the manner in which consultations are held with other affected groups, such as rural and informal sector workers.

Part V of the report form. The Committee notes that the ILO has prepared a study on Poverty Eradication in Sudan (April 1998). Noting the Government’s request in its report for technical assistance in the area of management of small-scale enterprises, the Committee encourages the Government and the Office to examine appropriate ways in which assistance for employment generation, in the sense of the Convention, might be made available to Sudan.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

The Committee notes the information provided in the Government’s very brief report.

Article 1 of the Convention. The Government states that employment promotion is encouraged through fostering self-employment. To this end, it has provided loans and training, including assistance to university graduates. In Khartoum State, 300 small-scale enterprises were aided, and in Jazira State 80 were helped. The Government also intends to improve training to government officials, to better match skills supplied to skills demanded. The Committee notes this information and asks further information on the impact of the measures mentioned by the Government on employment promotion. Please also describe in detail any other measures taken to promote employment, particularly in rural areas and amongst women. Overall, the Committee requests detailed information on all of the points raised in the report form, as well as disaggregated data on trends in the labour market.

Article 2. Please provide detailed information on how the employment policy and programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy. Please also provide information on measures taken to establish a system for collecting data on the labour market.

Article 3. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the programmes to generate self-employment have been developed in consultation with employers’ and workers’ organizations. The Committee would appreciate receiving further information on the nature of other consultations and their outcomes. Please also specify the manner in which consultations are held with other affected groups, such as rural and informal sector workers.

Part V of the report form. The Committee notes that the ILO has prepared a study on Poverty Eradication in Sudan (April 1998). Noting the Government’s request in its report for technical assistance in the area of management of small-scale enterprises, the Committee encourages the Government and the Office to examine appropriate ways in which assistance for employment generation, in the sense of the Convention, might be made available to Sudan.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee notes the information contained in the Government's report which was received by the Office in September 1999. The Government gives a detailed account of the third employment plan (1999-2001). The general policy objectives include promoting skills, harmonizing macroeconomic policies to promote full employment, developing more equitable wage policies, promoting labour market indicators, reducing open unemployment to under 10 per cent by attracting labour-intensive investment, and expanding worker social services. Specific goals intended to further the above objectives include expanding training and apprenticeships and developing a database. The Government also intends to reduce rural migration to urban areas by creating jobs outside city centres. The Committee notes with interest the Government's efforts to formulate a clear and comprehensive employment policy within the context of a coordinated economic and social policy.

The Committee looks forward to receiving further information on specific programmes designed to carry out the Government's employment policy and the progress they make in achieving the goal of full, productive and freely chosen employment, as specified in Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. The Committee would also appreciate further information on the measures taken to ensure that employment policies and programmes are formulated in consultation with employers' and workers' representatives, as well as representatives of other sectors of the economically active population, such as rural and informal sector workers, as specified in Article 3.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1998, published 87th ILC session (1999)

The Committee notes that the Government's report contains no reply to previous comments. It hopes that the next report will include full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government provides only brief information: it requests the Government to supply a detailed report in the form adopted by the Governing Body, with information on the many aspects of an employment policy in terms of the Convention raised there.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1997, published 86th ILC session (1998)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government provides only brief information; that there has been a second Triennial Programme covering 1994-96 including various economic reforms with some privatizations; that UNIDO has assisted in the identification of vulnerable groups to be assisted, and that "general confederations" of employers' and workers' organizations have participated in the elaboration of policies.

It requests the Government to supply a detailed report in the form adopted by the Governing Body, with information on the many aspects of an employment policy in terms of the Convention raised there.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the Government provides only brief information; that there has been a second Triennial Programme covering 1994-96 including various economic reforms with some privatizations; that UNIDO has assisted in the identification of vulnerable groups to be assisted, and that "general confederations" of employers' and workers' organizations have participated in the elaboration of policies.

It requests the Government to supply a detailed report in the form adopted by the Governing Body, with information on the many aspects of an employment policy in terms of the Convention raised there.

[The Government is asked to report in detail in 1997.]

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government which contained brief and partial replies to the points raised in the previous direct request. It would be grateful if the Government would communicate, for the next reporting period, detailed information on the effect given to the whole of the provisions of the Convention for the aforementioned period, as requested in the report form. It also asks the Government to supply additional information on the following points, which formed the basis of its previous comments.

1. The Committee notes the statements concerning the objectives and guiding principles of the Triennial Programme of Economic Recovery 1990-93. According to the description provided in the report, the Government intends to privatize the economy and implement appropriate economic, financial and institutional structural adjustments, all in a way which minimizes the negative effects on vulnerable sectors or groups. The measures will include programmes, for example to create a reserve fund for artisans and small industries, or another fund for the development and retraining of workers affected by the reduction of the public sector. It asks the Government to indicate if and by what measures the objectives defined in the 1990-93 programme have been achieved, if particular difficulties have been encountered, and what are the objectives of employment defined in the development plans or programmes actually in force.

2. The Committee notes the information contained in the Government's report concerning a list of relevant measures more or less directly within the domain of the employment policy and which will be adopted. These seem to correspond to certain objectives defined in the triennial programme, but the Committee would be grateful if the Government would provide a complete description of the employment and labour market policy, and furnish available statistics which would facilitate the evaluation of the precise measures and understand the situation and the trends in employment, unemployment and underemployment. If these do not exist, please indicate the measures envisaged to set up an information system for the labour market. Additionally, the Committee hopes that the Government soon will adopt the revised law on the workforce, and also will send a copy of the text to the ILO.

3. The Committee notes the information on the participation of employers' and workers' organizations in the tripartite committee which has proceeded to revise the aforementioned law, as well as the Council of Professional Relations. It would be grateful if the Government would specify the manner in which the representatives of the employers and workers are consulted, recalling that the consultations envisaged in the Convention are not limited to the questions of employment policy in the narrow sense of the term, but should include all of the aspects of economic policy which affect the labour market. The Committee also asks the Government to indicate if the consultations in the sense of Article 3 of the Convention include representatives of other sectors of the economically active population, such as persons engaged in the rural and informal sectors.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

The Committee notes the brief information contained in the Government's report for the period ending June 1992. With reference to its previous comments, it regrets to note the absence of the information requested on the objectives and orientations of the Triennial Economic Salvation Programme 1990-1993 in respect of employment policy.

The Committee trusts that the Government will supply full information in its next report on the employment policy measures which are currently being implemented or are envisaged, with an indication of the manner in which the representatives of the persons affected, and in particular the representatives of employers' and worker's organizations, are consulted on these measures, in accordance with Article 3 of the Convention. Please also indicate the measures which have been taken with a view to the establishment of a labour market information system.

The Committee notes the information concerning the results obtained through the special public works programmes in Darfur and Kordofan, which were undertaken within the context of ILO technical cooperation projects, and would be grateful if the Government would indicate the action taken as a result of these projects (Part V of the report form). In particular, please indicate whether it is intended to extend public works programmes at the national level.

Finally, with regard to point 2 of its previous direct request, relating to the question of compulsory national service in the context of the application of Article 1, paragraph 2(c), of the Convention, the Committee refers to its comments under Convention No. 105.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

1. The Committee notes the Government's report for the period ending June 1990, which contains some information in reply to its previous direct request. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee notes the continuing difficulties encountered by the country in promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention). The Committee notes the recommendations of the National Economic Salvation Congress concerning employment policy and would be grateful if the Government would state in its next report the employment policy objectives and measures that are envisaged, on the basis of these recommendations, under the Triennial Economic Salvation Programme 1990-93, and if it would indicate the extent to which these objectives are being achieved. Please also describe the measures that have been taken in order to ensure that employment policy decisions are based on an adequate knowledge of labour market trends and problems.

2. With regard to points 8 and 10 of these recommendations, concerning compulsory national service and the legislation regulating workers' organisations, the Committee refers to its comments on the application of the forced labour Conventions and the examination of the cases brought before the Committee on Freedom of Association.

3. Please indicate the manner in which effect is given to the provisions of Article 3 of the Convention, which requires consultation of the persons affected by employment policies.

4. The Committee notes the information concerning special public works programmes undertaken within the framework of ILO technical cooperation programmes. It would be grateful if the Government would indicate the results achieved by these programmes, particularly in terms of job creation (Part V of the report form).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1990, published 77th ILC session (1990)

The Committee takes note of the Government's brief report. In its previous comments, the Committee said that it appreciated the difficulties that the country was experiencing in promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment, within the framework of a co-ordinated economic and social policy (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention). It hopes that the Government's next report will include detailed information on the measures taken or under consideration to declare and pursue an active employment policy and that it will also contain information on the following matters:

1.Please describe the steps taken to establish a labour market information mechanism.

2.Please describe the employment policy objectives and measures defined in the 1988/89-1991/92 Four-Year Development Programme. Please provide available information or estimates indicating to what extent these objectives are being attained.

3.The Committee has been informed that an ILO mission visited Sudan in January 1988 to examine the possibilities of creating employment for university graduates, whose unemployment rate is estimated to be approximately 25 per cent. Please indicate the effect given to the recommendations of the mission, which concerned an action plan for self-employment generation for young graduates in the context of small enterprise development. Please describe, more generally, the measures taken or contemplated to ensure the co-ordination of education and training policies with employment prospects.

4.Part V of the report form. The Committee has also been informed of other technical co-operation projects concerning various areas covered by the Convention (special public works programmes, activities to promote employment for refugees, vocational training for the disabled). It asks the Government to indicate the action undertaken as a result of ILO technical co-operation and to indicate any factors that may have hindered or delayed such action.